Inter Miami secured a dramatic 4-2 comeback victory over Orlando City in their second MLS 2026 match on the evening of 1/3. After a surprising 0-3 loss to Los Angeles FC in their season opener last week, Inter Miami found themselves once again in trouble, trailing Orlando City 0-2 within 24 minutes. However, Lionel Messi delivered a stellar performance, scoring two goals and assisting one to propel the defending champions to a significant win.

Inter Miami's defense struggled early in the match. In the 18th minute, Marco Pasalic scored Orlando City's opening goal with a low shot following a left-wing cross. Six minutes later, the visitors' defense made another error, allowing Martin Ojeda to double the lead with an outside-of-the-foot shot from inside the box.

Ojeda celebrates a goal during Orlando City's 2-4 loss to Inter Miami in the second round of MLS on the evening of 1/3. Photo: NS

After a shaky first half, Inter Miami transformed. The introduction of Mateo Silvetti stabilized the midfield. In the 49th minute, Silvetti himself scored from 25 meters, reducing the deficit to 1-2.

Silvetti's goal ignited Inter Miami's inspiration. The defending champions then completely dominated, maintaining 65% possession and securing a resounding victory. In the 57th minute, surrounded by four Orlando City players, Messi struck from 17 meters, placing the ball into the far corner to level the score at 2-2.

Messi celebrates a goal with Silvetti (right) during Orlando City's 2-4 loss to Inter Miami in the second round of MLS on the evening of 1/3. Photo: Inter Miami

Orlando City dropped deep to defend for a draw late in the match. However, Messi once again changed the game. In the 85th minute, the Inter Miami captain assisted Telasco Segovia, who scored with a low shot from inside the box to make it 3-2. Five minutes later, Messi sealed the 4-2 victory with a direct free-kick from 25 meters.

This victory against Orlando City, an opponent that defeated Inter Miami in both MLS matches last season with scores of 3-0 and 4-1, proved timely. Messi and his teammates regained morale after their opening loss to Los Angeles FC, and are now back on track in their championship defense campaign.

Thanh Quy