Inter Miami vs Philadelphia Union: Thrilling 3-3 Draw Fueled by Messi's Magic

The match between Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union on May 24, 2025, delivered a rollercoaster of emotions, ending in a 3-3 draw. The game featured stunning goals, dramatic comebacks, and a late free-kick masterclass from Lionel Messi. This article delves into the key moments, player performances, and overall narrative of this captivating MLS encounter.

First Half: Union's Dominance

Philadelphia Union started strong, establishing a 2-0 lead before halftime. Quinn Sullivan opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a right-footed shot from the left side of the box, assisted by Kai Wagner following a corner. Tai Baribo extended the lead in the 44th minute, capitalizing on an assist from Mikael Uhre. The Union's early dominance showcased their tactical organization and clinical finishing.

Second Half: Miami's Comeback

Inter Miami mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. Tadeo Allende scored in the 60th minute with a header, assisted by Noah Allen, reducing the deficit to 2-1. However, Tai Baribo struck again in the 73rd minute, restoring the Union's two-goal lead. Just when it seemed Philadelphia was cruising to victory, Lionel Messi stepped up.

In the 87th minute, Messi scored a breathtaking free-kick, bending the ball into the top left corner, making it 3-2. The momentum shifted, and Inter Miami pushed for an equalizer. In the 95th minute, Telasco Segovia completed the comeback with a right-footed shot, securing a 3-3 draw. The second half was a testament to Inter Miami's resilience and Messi's enduring brilliance.

Key Match Events

• 7': Quinn Sullivan Goal (Philadelphia Union) (Video Link)
• 44': Tai Baribo Goal (Philadelphia Union) (Video Link)
• 60': Tadeo Allende Goal (Inter Miami CF)
• 73': Tai Baribo Goal (Philadelphia Union)
• 87': Lionel Messi Goal (Inter Miami CF) (Video Link)
• 90+5': Telasco Segovia Goal (Inter Miami CF) (Video Link)

Starting Lineups

Here's a look at the starting lineups for both teams:

Philadelphia Union:

• G: Andrew Rick (#76)
• CD-L: Olwethu Makhanya (#29)
• CD-R: Jakob Glesnes (#5)
• LB: Kai Wagner (#27)
• RB: Nathan Harriel (#26)
• CM-L: Jovan Lukic (#4)
• CM-R: Danley Jean Jacques (#21)
• LM: Indiana Vassilev (#19)
• RM: Quinn Sullivan (#33)
• CF-L: Tai Baribo (#9)
• CF-R: Mikkel Uhre (#7)

Inter Miami CF:

• G: Oscar Ustari (#19)
• CD-L: Gonzalo Luján (#2)
• CD-R: Tomás Avilés (#6)
• LB: Noah Allen (#32)
• RB: Ian Fray (#17)
• CM-L: Sergio Busquets (#5)
• CM-R: Yannick Bright (#42)
• LM: Jordi Alba (#18)
• RM: Tadeo Allende (#21)
• CF-L: Luis Suárez (#9)
• CF-R: Lionel Messi (#10)

Match Statistics and Analysis

While detailed statistics are not available in the provided Reddit data, key events such as goals and substitutions offer insights into the game's dynamics. Philadelphia Union's strong start and Tai Baribo's impressive performance put them in a commanding position. However, Inter Miami's substitutions and tactical adjustments in the second half allowed them to claw their way back into the game.

Federico Redondo replacing Yannick Bright due to injury in the 40th minute was a crucial moment for Inter Miami. The introduction of Marcelo Weigandt and Telasco Segovia in the 61st minute further revitalized their attack. For Philadelphia, the substitution of Jesús Bueno for Mikael Uhre in the 63rd minute aimed to solidify their midfield, but it couldn't contain Miami's resurgence.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Highlights

The game generated significant buzz on social media, with fans expressing their excitement and reactions in real-time. Posts on Reddit's r/MLS and r/InterMiami subreddits captured the mood, showcasing the passion and engagement of soccer enthusiasts.

One Reddit user on r/fulbo commented (translated from Spanish): "They don't stop losing, this hdp is going to make Messi arrive depressed and hating football in 2026," reflecting the frustration of some fans with Inter Miami's performance despite Messi's presence.

The Impact of Key Players

Lionel Messi: His late free-kick was a moment of pure brilliance, underscoring his ability to change the course of a game with a single strike. Tai Baribo: Scored two crucial goals for Philadelphia Union, showcasing his finishing prowess. Quinn Sullivan: Opened the scoring with a stunning goal, setting the tone for Union's early dominance. Telasco Segovia: His late equalizer salvaged a point for Inter Miami, highlighting his impact as a substitute.

Looking Ahead

This thrilling draw sets the stage for future encounters between Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union. Both teams demonstrated their attacking capabilities and resilience. As the MLS season progresses, fans can anticipate more exciting matchups and dramatic moments from these competitive sides.

Match Summary

The Inter Miami vs Philadelphia Union match was a captivating display of soccer, featuring stunning goals, tactical shifts, and a dramatic finish. Lionel Messi's late free-kick and Telasco Segovia's equalizer secured a 3-3 draw, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. This game will be remembered as a testament to the excitement and unpredictability of MLS soccer.

Starting XI Details

Philadelphia Union

Inter Miami CF