Lionel Messi scored his second goal in as many games to help Inter Miami defeat Charlotte FC 2-1 and reach the semifinals of the Leagues Cup on Wednesday night.
Messi opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a brilliant free kick that curled into the top corner of the net. He then set up Robbie Robinson for the winning goal in the 63rd minute.
The victory was a major boost for Inter Miami, who are struggling in MLS this season. They have won just two of their eight games and are currently in last place in the Eastern Conference.
But the Leagues Cup has been a different story for Inter Miami. They have won all three of their matches in the competition, including a 3-0 victory over Liga MX giants Club America.
Messi has been a key part of Inter Miami's success in the Leagues Cup. He has scored three goals in three matches and has been involved in all five of their goals.
The 34-year-old Argentine superstar is still one of the best players in the world, and he is showing no signs of slowing down. He is still capable of producing moments of magic, and he is a major threat to score goals in every match he plays.
Inter Miami will face Liga MX side Pumas UNAM in the semifinals of the Leagues Cup. The match will be played on September 21 at Inter Miami Stadium.
Pumas UNAM are the defending champions of the Leagues Cup, and they will be a tough test for Inter Miami. However, if Messi can continue his good form, Inter Miami will be confident of reaching the final.
A victory in the Leagues Cup would be a major achievement for Inter Miami. It would be their first trophy in club history, and it would be a sign that they are a team on the rise.
But even if Inter Miami do not win the Leagues Cup, the experience of playing against top-level competition will be invaluable for the team. It will help them to improve and to become more competitive in MLS.
The future is bright for Inter Miami, and Lionel Messi is playing a major role in their development. He is a world-class player who is still capable of winning matches on his own. If he can stay fit and healthy, he will be a major asset to Inter Miami for many years to come.
Here are some additional details about the match:
- The match was played at Inter Miami Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
- The attendance was 19,837.
- Charlotte FC took the lead in the 10th minute through a goal from Christian Fuchs.
- Messi equalized for Inter Miami in the 15th minute with a free kick.
- Robinson scored the winning goal for Inter Miami in the 63rd minute.
- Inter Miami were reduced to 10 men in the 78th minute when Bryce Duke was sent off.