Lionel Messi made a triumphant return from injury, scoring twice and adding an assist as Inter Miami defeated the Philadelphia Union 3-1 in Major League Soccer on Saturday.
Messi, who had been sidelined since July 14 due to an ankle injury sustained during the Copa America final, missed eight MLS games and World Cup qualifiers. Despite his lengthy absence, Messi seamlessly reintegrated into the lineup.
In the match held at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Messi equalized for Inter Miami in the 26th minute after Mikael Uhre had given Philadelphia an early lead. He then put Miami ahead in the 30th minute with another precise strike. Luis Suarez’s attempt to make it 3-1 before halftime was overturned by VAR, but he later added a goal in injury time with an assist from Messi.
Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino was pleased with Messi’s performance and the decision to keep him and Suarez on the field for the full match. The win extended Inter Miami’s lead at the top of the MLS standings to 62 points, 10 points ahead of FC Cincinnati.
Messi’s return bolsters Inter Miami’s quest for the Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best overall record. He now has 14 goals in 13 games, placing him in contention for the top scorer title.
Despite early scares and injuries, including a setback for Paraguayan center-back David Martinez, Messi’s return proved decisive. With Messi’s contribution, Inter Miami remains firmly in control as they approach the end of the regular season.
