Lionel Messi scored twice to inspire Inter Miami CF to a thrilling 4-2 comeback victory against Orlando City SC in a dramatic Major League Soccer Florida derby on Sunday.

The reigning MLS champions looked set for a second consecutive defeat after Orlando raced into a commanding 2-0 lead during the first half at Inter&Co Stadium.

Orlando opened the scoring in the 18th minute when Marco Pasalic calmly finished a low cross delivered by Ivan Angulo after Miami lost possession in midfield.

Just six minutes later, the home side doubled their advantage. Right-back Griffin Dorsey surged forward before setting up Martin Ojeda, who fired home to make it 2-0 and put Orlando firmly in control.

Miami Respond After the Break

Inter Miami responded strongly after halftime, shifting the momentum of the match.

Substitute Mateo Silvetti sparked the comeback in the 49th minute with a spectacular long-range strike from nearly 25 yards that gave Miami renewed hope.

Eight minutes later, Messi produced a moment of brilliance. The Argentine superstar collected the ball at the edge of the penalty area before curling a precise left-footed shot beyond Orlando goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau to level the match at 2-2.

Messi Seals the Victory

As the game entered its closing stages, Messi again proved decisive.

In the 85th minute, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner delivered a perfectly weighted pass that allowed Telasco Segovia to slot home the go-ahead goal and complete Miami’s turnaround.

Messi then sealed the victory in the 90th minute with a clever low free-kick that slipped beneath Crepeau, confirming a dramatic 4-2 triumph.

The result marks an important bounce-back performance for Inter Miami after their disappointing opening defeat and highlights Messi’s continued influence in Major League Soccer.