Stoppage-Time Showdown: Messi and Segovia Lead Miami to Thrilling 3-3 Draw Against Philadelphia

By Alonso Contreras

Subaru Park, Chester, PA — May 24, 2025

In one of the most electrifying matches of the 2025 MLS season, Inter Miami CF clawed back from a two-goal halftime deficit to earn a dramatic 3-3 draw against Philadelphia Union, thanks to a moment of Lionel Messi magic and a stoppage-time strike from Telasco Segovia. This match had everything — goals, cards, woodwork, controversy, and a stunning late twist that left the crowd gasping at Subaru Park.

First Half: Union in Control

Philadelphia Union came into the game determined to make a statement and did so emphatically in the first 45 minutes.

The tone was set early, with Kai Wagner whipping in a dangerous corner in the 7th minute. The delivery fell kindly to Quinn Sullivan, who lashed a right-footed strike from the left side of the box into the upper right central zone. Óscar Ustari had no chance. 1–0 Union.

The Union’s pressing and aggressive midfield play stifled Miami’s possession rhythm. Jovan Lukic, Indiana Vassilev, and Danley Jean Jacques were relentless, with Lukic and Vassilev both testing Ustari and forcing key blocks from Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

In the 44th minute, Philadelphia doubled their lead in fluid style. A lovely move began with Vassilev, who fed Mikael Uhre, and the Dane delivered a perfectly weighted assist to Tai Baribo, who rifled his shot into the top center of the goal. 2–0 Union at the break, and Miami were reeling.

Second Half: The Messi Factor Ignites

Inter Miami came out from halftime with purpose. The introduction of fresh legs — Marcelo Weigandt and Telasco Segovia — gave Miami more width and energy.

The comeback started in the 60th minute. Jordi Alba, overlapping down the left, played a quick one-two with Noah Allen and delivered a high cross into the area. Tadeo Allende rose to meet it and powered a header past Andrew Rick. 2–1. The goal was Miami’s first real breath of life.

But just as Miami began to believe, Philadelphia answered. In the 73rd minute, chaos reigned in the box after a series of blocked shots. When the dust cleared, Tai Baribo was in the right place to sweep the ball into the bottom left corner for his second of the night. 3–1, and Union looked secure.

Then came Messi.

In the 87th minute, after being fouled outside the area by Jakob Glesnes, Lionel Messi stepped up to take a free kick in his trademark zone — central, about 25 yards out. With surgical precision, he curled the ball over the wall and into the top left corner. A trademark golazo. 3–2, and belief flooded back into Miami’s veins.

Stoppage-Time Mayhem: Woodwork, Cards, and a Thunderbolt

The final minutes were absolute chaos.

In the 90'+4, Jovan Lukic nearly sealed the match with a blistering shot from the center of the box that cannoned off the crossbar — inches from glory.

Seconds later, Messi received the ball near midfield and orchestrated another attack. The ball eventually found its way to Telasco Segovia, who charged into the box. With composure beyond his years, he smashed a right-footed shot into the top right corner in the 90'+5 minute. Inter Miami had pulled off the improbable. 3–3.

Tempers flared immediately after, as Danley Jean Jacques was booked in the 90'+7 for a late challenge on Jordi Alba, which epitomized Philadelphia’s frustration. Alba, who was also booked earlier, drew the contact smartly to wind down the clock.

Full-Time Reflection: A Tale of Two Halves

This match encapsulated the very spirit of Major League Soccer — unpredictable, dramatic, and filled with moments of brilliance.

Philadelphia Union were dominant for large spells. Baribo was clinical, and Wagner’s set-piece delivery was dangerous all evening. Yet, their inability to manage the closing stages cost them two vital points.

For Inter Miami, Lionel Messi continues to defy age and logic. His influence in big moments remains unmatched. But it was Telasco Segovia, the 22-year-old right-back turned hero, who ensured Miami escaped Chester with a point.

Key Performers:

• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): 1 goal, 1 assist-like involvement, 2 key passes — the heartbeat of Miami’s comeback.

• Tai Baribo (Philadelphia Union): 2 goals, 5 shots, excellent hold-up play.

• Telasco Segovia (Inter Miami): Came on at 61’, scored the dramatic equalizer, and added width in attack.

Stat Sheet Highlights:

• Shots (on target): Philadelphia 21 (9), Miami 17 (7)

• Possession: Philadelphia 48%, Miami 52%

• Expected Goals (xG): Philadelphia 2.34, Miami 2.11

• Fouls Committed: Philadelphia 14, Miami 13

• Yellow Cards: Philadelphia 4, Miami 3

• Corners: Philadelphia 8, Miami 7

Final Word:

This 3-3 draw will sting for Union fans who saw their team give away two leads, but it will be remembered for its breathtaking drama. For Inter Miami, it was a tale of grit, quality, and a sprinkle of Messi magic. The Eastern Conference playoff race just got a lot more intriguing.