Messi Leads Miami's Comeback in Florida Derby

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is MLS News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. Inter Miami picked up their first win of the 2026 MLS season, beating Rivals Orlando City 4-2 on Sunday. After a 3-0 loss to L.A.F.C. in their opener, Lionel Messi led the comeback with two goals and an assist in his first away Florida Derby. The team trailed two nothing in half time, but turned it around with quick strikes after the break. Orlando jumped ahead early with goals in the 18th and 24th minutes, thanks to poor play for Miami's midfield. But Inter Miami took control in the second half, dominating possession at 61%. Mateo Savetti curled in a beauty from distance in the 49th minute, then Messi scored from the top of the box before setting up to Lasco, Segovia. In the 85th, coach Javier Masherano called Messi the best player ever and a true leader whose energy fires up the team.

1:00Fans love Messi's class too, as he motioned for autographs to the Orlando bench after a late red card there, showing he gets the rivalries' heat even. At 38 years old, player ratings showed Messi's 9.3 top mark with Segovia close at 9.1 for his link up play. Goalkeeper Daines and Claire bounce back strong, and midfielder Yannick Bright anchored the midfield at 7.3. Rodrigo DePaul struggled early but showed fight. The win highlights Miami's attacking edge, outrooting Orlando 15-10 and creating two big chances despite just 1.79 expected. Goals, with 626 passes to Orlando's 403, they're building fast under Masherano as the season ramps up. Support for this episode comes from our sponsor, see the description. Do not just listen to podcasts, get lost in them comfortably, S-O-L-L-I, solely pillow.com.