March 2 (UPI) -- Lionel Messi scored his first two goals of the season, with an 18-yard equalizer and curling free kick, to help Inter Miami CF rally past Orlando City SC.
Messi found the net in the 57th and 85th minutes of the 4-2 triumph Sunday in Orlando, Fla. The Herons trailed 2-0 entering the first half of their first win of the 2026 MLS campaign.
"In the second half, our players played like a championship team and they deserve all the credit," Herons coach Javier Mascherano told reporters.
Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia logged a goal and two assists in the victory. The defending MLS champions outshot the Lions 16-12. They held a 58% to 42% edge in possession and 632-416 advantage in passes.
Marco Pasalic gave the Lions an initial lead when he beat Herons goalie Dayne St. Clair in the 18th minute. Fellow Lions winger Ivan Angulo started that play by intercepting a pass near midfield. The Colombian midfielder dribbled up the left flank and crossed to Pasalic when he reached the box. Pasalic brought the ball down and used his left foot to launch a bouncing shot between St. Clair and the right post.
