Orlando City Thrash Inter Miami 4-1 as Luis Muriel Shines in Messi’s Absence

Orlando, Florida – Orlando City SC delivered a stunning 4-1 victory over Inter Miami CF on Sunday night, with Luis Muriel scoring twice and Martín Ojeda playing a key role. The match was notable for the absence of Lionel Messi, who was sidelined due to a leg injury sustained in the Leagues Cup.

Messi Missing, Miami Struggle

Inter Miami’s talisman Lionel Messi did not feature after picking up an injury last Saturday against Necaxa. Without their star forward — who has scored 18 goals in 18 appearances this season — Miami lacked their usual spark.

Speaking after the game, Miami head coach Javier Mascherano admitted his side’s shortcomings:

“Today there are no excuses. Football is about tactics, organisation, talent — but also hunger and desire. We clearly didn’t have that. The intensity wasn’t there, and they were better in one-on-one situations.”

Early Drama in Orlando

The match began at a frantic pace:

2nd minute: Luis Muriel put Orlando ahead with a quick strike, assisted by Ojeda.
5th minute: Yannick Bright equalised for Miami with his first career goal in his 40th appearance.

Muriel’s opener also extended Ojeda’s incredible run, making it 14 consecutive matches with a goal contribution.

Second-Half Dominance

Orlando came out strong after the break:

50th minute: Muriel scored his second of the night, bringing his season tally to eight.
58th minute: Ojeda added a goal of his own — his 14th of the season — giving Orlando a two-goal cushion.
88th minute: Marco Pašalić sealed the win with an unassisted strike, marking his 10th goal in his debut season.

Ojeda’s total of 27 goal contributions (goals plus assists) now leads the league.

Key Performances

Luis Muriel: Two goals and a lively presence in attack.
Martín Ojeda: One goal, one assist, and a club-record goal contribution streak.
Pedro Gallese: Four saves, including a superb fingertip stop from a Luis Suárez long-range effort.
Marco Pašalić: Continued his dream debut season with another goal.

Miami goalkeeper Óscar Ustari made eight saves but couldn’t stop Orlando’s relentless attack.

Mascherano’s Frustration

Mascherano didn’t hold back in his post-match comments:

“If we really want to compete, this isn’t the way. Orlando outplayed us from the first minute to the last. I’m responsible as coach, but there’s not much more to say — there was only one team on the pitch.”

What This Means for the Table

Orlando City: Move up to 4th place in the Eastern Conference. Coach Oscar Pareja is now one win away from his 100th victory in all competitions.
Inter Miami: Stay in 6th place, but hold three games in hand over the top four and two over 5th-place Columbus Crew.

Next Fixtures

Inter Miami: Host LA Galaxy on Saturday.
Orlando City: Host Sporting Kansas City on Saturday.

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