Lionel Messi makes stunning return to Inter Miami after long injury lay-off
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Lionel Messi marked his triumphant comeback with Inter Miami last night, netting two goals within just four minutes and leading his team to a 3-1 victory against the Philadelphia Union.
The 37-year-old made his debut for the MLS team after recovering from an ankle injury he sustained during Argentina's 1-0 victory against Colombia in the Copa America final back in July.
He made an immediate impact upon his return, receiving a pass from former Barcelona colleague Luis Suarez right at the edge of the penalty area. He skillfully maneuvered around his defender and fired a powerful low shot into the bottom corner of the net in the 26th minute.
A short while later, he entered the penalty area to receive a low cross from another ex-teammate, Jordi Alba, in the 30th minute. This time, he adjusted his body to direct the ball into the far corner of the net.
Messi made a flawless comeback by setting up Luis Suarez in the 98th minute. He passed the ball to the Uruguayan just outside the penalty area, allowing Suarez to bend his shot into the bottom corner of the net.
Thanks to his contributions, Messi has scored 14 goals and provided 10 assists in only 13 matches in the MLS this season. Even though he's been absent for 15 games, he currently ranks eighth among the league's top scorers, trailing Christian Benteke by five goals and his teammate Suarez by three.
Inter Miami is currently leading the Eastern Conference with 62 points, holding a 10-point advantage over their closest rivals, Cincinnati, even though they've played the last nine matches without Messi.
The Argentine player was busy representing his country in June and July, but an ankle injury sidelined him for the last four games with Inter Miami.
The club from Fort Lauderdale is set to kick off its quest for the first MLS Cup this October, following the conclusion of the regular season and the start of the playoffs. However, it’s still unclear who their first opponent will be in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
