Orlando City SC closed out Group South 2 play with a thrilling 3-2 win over Santos Laguna to earn a spot in the knockout round of Leagues Cup 2023.
Wilder Cartagena's goal in the last minute of the match not only sent the Lions’ faithful into delirium but it also set up one of the more intriguing matches of the knockout round: a date with in-state rival Inter Miami CF and Lionel Messi
"For 12 years, nobody can stop him,” said Orlando City SC coach Oscar Pareja. “We take into account that we are going to play with our rival from the state, but also with the attention that Leo (Messi) generated in the atmosphere of football in the United States.”
Pareja also said Messi's arrival in the United States is decisive for the growth of soccer in the country, but doesn’t doubt his team is concentrating on a win.
"The Messi phenomenon makes us proud in the MLS, that he has chosen to come to this league. We are not going to play against just a player but against a whole team. Of course I can’t ignore Messi, but we’re focusing on the whole team,” he said.
Messi made his debut with Inter Miami CF in Leagues Cup 203 and his influence on the club has already been felt. He’s scored two goals and notched and assists across two wins. Prior to Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami was last in the MLS Eastern Conference with only five wins in 22 matches.
When is Orlando City SC vs Inter Miami CF?
The in-state rivals will play Wednesday, August 2, at DRV PNK Stadium. The kickoff time has yet to be announced.
