Lionel Messi marked his return from a right-hamstring injury with two goals as Inter Miami defeated 10-man Orlando City on Wednesday night in Fort Lauderdale, earning a place in the Leagues Cup final. After missing four matches, the 37-year-old forward was cleared only hours before kick-off. Orlando led deep into the second half, but Messi converted a penalty won during the foul that also produced a red card for the visitors. He then combined with Jordi Alba for the decisive strike in the closing minutes, completing a three-goal flurry that turned the match. The victory sends Inter Miami to the 31 August showpiece and guarantees the club a berth in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, while Orlando will contest the third-place game. Messi is expected to rejoin Argentina for World Cup qualifiers following the tournament.