Due to Lionel Messi’s long-range goal against Philadelphia Union, Miami will participate in their first-ever CONCACAF Champions League next year thanks to the victory.
Inter Miami defeated Philadelphia Union 4-1 to advance to the Leagues Cup final on Tuesday thanks to a goal from Lionel Messi, who now has nine goals in six games.
Since Miami acquired the Argentinean striker to their squad last month, Philadelphia, who advanced to the MLS Cup final last season and have a strong home record, were expected to present Miami with their toughest challenge.
Serhiy Kryvtsov’s throw was intercepted by rushing Josef Martinez, who 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 goalkeeper Andre Blake in the 20th minute. Blake was sluggish to react because he was strangely left unattended.
Just before halftime, Jordi Alba gave the home team a 3-0 advantage and further demoralized 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 compete in their first-ever CONCACAF Champions League next year thanks to the victory as well.