Lionel Messi scored his ninth goal in six games as Inter Miami defeated the Philadelphia Union to advance to the League Cup final.
A day after injuring his ankle in training, the Argentine World Cup winner scored Miami’s second goal in a 4-1 triumph.
Miami’s goals came from Josef Martinez, Jordi Alba, and David Ruiz, while the hosts’ came from Alejandro Bedoya.
Miami will now face Nashville SC in the final on Saturday (Sunday, 02:00 BST).
Miami will also compete in the Concacaf Champions Cup regional event next season, which might lead to a spot in Fifa’s enlarged Club World Cup in 2025.
“Our goal was to qualify for international competition next season, and we accomplished that,” Miami manager Gerardo Martino stated.
“Now we have to prepare to win this tournament, which has us feeling very motivated and confident.”
Miami’s sixth consecutive victory since Messi’s arrival in July allows the 36-year-old to prepare for the 42nd final of his career in the World Cup-style elimination event featuring clubs from Mexico and Major League Soccer in the United States.
Nashville will host the game after defeating Monterrey 2-0 to earn a spot in the championship game.
