Inter Miami defeated Philadelphia Union 4-1 on Tuesday to go to the Leagues Cup final, and Lionel Messi scored his ninth goal in six games.
Inter Miami reach Leagues Cup final: Miami acquire the Argentinean striker for their squad last month, and now Philadelphia, who advance to the MLS Cup final last season and have a strong home record, were expect to present Miami with their toughest challenge.
Rushing Josef Martinez intercepted Serhiy Kryvtsov’s throw and scored the game’s first goal three minutes later for the visiting Miami.
Messi received a pass from Martinez just past midfield and dribbled forward before unleashing a long shot that sailed past Union custodian Andre Blake in the 20th minute. Because he was strangely left unattended, Blake reacted sluggishly.
Just before halftime, Jordi Alba gave the home team a 3-0 advantage and further demoralised the Union as the crowd booed them as they entered the locker room.
Miami, who had scored 21 goals in their past six games, defeated Philadelphia with a goal from David Ruiz in the 84th minute. Philadelphia had pulled one back through Alejandro Bedoya in the 73rd minute.
Miami will play in its first Leagues Cup final in club history on Saturday against either CF Monterrey or Nashville SC, who play later on Tuesday.
Miami will participate in the CONCACAF Champions League for the first time thanks to the victory next season.