Controversial win: Inter Miami beats Orlando City 3-1 with Messi brace

Inter Miami takes controversial 3-1 win over Orlando City

Miami, FL – Inter Miami claimed a 3-1 victory against Orlando City in a Florida derby marked by controversy, refereeing decisions, and late goals that tipped the balance in favor of the home side. A penalty and a red card were decisive moments that conditioned the outcome of the match.

First Half: Orlando takes the lead

The game started with high intensity, with both teams generating opportunities. In the 45th minute, Marco Pašalić silenced the crowd by scoring for Orlando City with a powerful left-footed shot inside the box, sending his team into halftime with a 1-0 advantage.

Second Half: penalty and expulsion change everything

The turning point came in the 75th minute when David Brekalo of Orlando received his second yellow card, leaving the visitors down to 10 players. Just two minutes later, Lionel Messi equalized the match 1-1 from the penalty spot, a decision that sparked protests from Orlando.

With the numerical advantage, Miami pressed forward, and in the 88th minute Messi struck again, this time from open play, finishing inside the box to make it 2-1. Orlando’s defense, already under pressure, struggled to contain Miami’s attack.

Closing minutes and heated atmosphere

In stoppage time, Luis Suárez assisted Telasco Segovia, who sealed the match 3-1 with a powerful finish. Despite Orlando’s attempts with Ojeda and Spicer in the final minutes, Ustari and Miami’s defense held firm.

The match ended with multiple yellow cards, including cautions for Messi, Busquets, and Suárez, reflecting the heated nature of the game.

Conclusion

Inter Miami walked away with three points, but the manner of victory left plenty of debate. Orlando City players and fans pointed to the penalty call and Brekalo’s expulsion as key factors that altered the match. For Miami, however, Messi’s brace and Segovia’s late goal extend their strong run of form as they continue climbing the standings.