Messi on target as Miami rout Union to reach Leagues Cup final

Inter Miami's Argentine forward Lionel Messi celebrates scoring during the CONCACAF Leagues Cup semifinal football match between Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park Stadium in Chester, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday. (AFP)

• Argentina superstar Messi took his tally to nine goals in six appearances for Miami in an entertaining semifinal at Philadelphia’s Subaru Park
• The result means Messi will now lead Miami into the 42nd final of his career when the World Cup-style tournament reaches its climax on Saturday

CHESTER, PENNSYLVANIA: Lionel Messi extended his remarkable goalscoring streak as Inter Miami powered into the final of the Leagues Cup with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Philadelphia Union on Tuesday.

Argentina superstar Messi took his tally to nine goals in six appearances for Miami in an entertaining semifinal at Philadelphia’s Subaru Park.

Venezuelan international Josef Martinez, Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba and substitute David Ruiz scored Miami’s other goals, with Alejandro Bedoya the lone scorer for outgunned Philadelphia.

The result means Messi will now lead Miami into the 42nd final of his career when the World Cup-style tournament reaches its climax on Saturday.