Inter Miami advanced to their first-ever Leagues Cup final with a thumping 4-1 victory over Philadelphia Union on Tuesday, thanks to a stunning performance from Lionel Messi.

Miami faced one of their hardest tests since Messi’s arrival barely a month ago, but they jumped out of the gate, with Josef Martinez scoring in the third minute, converting a long pass into a perfect strike.

Despite the crowd’s early jeers when Messi and the team onto the pitch, Messi’s brilliance quickly silenced the sceptics. Messi demonstrated his authority just 20 minutes into the game, blasting a beautiful left-footed strike from 35 yards, leaving Union custodian Andre Blake powerless as the ball nestled into the corner.

Jordi Alba added to Miami’s lead before halftime with a polished finish reminiscent of Messi or Martinez. Although Union responded with a goal from Alejandro Bedoya, Miami’s David Ruiz sealed the victory in the 84th minute.

Union tried a comeback, putting Miami’s tenacity to the test, but Miami’s skill and resolve triumphed, sealing their spot in the final.