Lionel Messi marked his return from injury in typical Messi-style on Saturday – scoring two goals in four minutes, assisting with another, and setting yet another Major League Soccer (MLS) record.
Making his first appearance for Inter Miami for more than three months, Messi became the fastest player in league history to record 15 goals and 15 assists, a mark he has reached in just 19 matches – 10 less than anyone else. He had a hand in all three of Miami’s goals on Saturday, leading his team to a 3-1 win over the Philadelphia Union.
Those efforts came after Miami got off to the worst possible start, conceding a goal in the opening minute of the game when Mikael Uhre rifled the ball into the net, past the outstretched fingertips of goalkeeper Drake Callender.
With Miami trailing 1-0, Messi latched onto a Luis Suárez pass inside the box and tapped the ball into the net to equalize. Just four minutes later, the Argentine had his second, bamboozling the Philadelphia defense to prod the ball into the net from an almost identical position.
Only a last gasp save from Callender prevented Philadelphia from equalizing in the 85th minute but shortly afterwards, Miami secured the win as Messi turned provider, feeding Suárez who found the corner of the net with a neat finish. That goal was Suárez’s 17th of the campaign, setting a new club record for the most goals scored in a single MLS regular season.
Afterwards, Messi – who hadn’t played since July 14 when he sustained an injury while playing for Argentina in the Copa América final – admitted that he was a “little tired.”
“Little by little I was training with the group, feeling good and that’s why we decided that I would start, and I’m very happy - very happy.”
Messi's Record-Breaking Return
Messi’s performance on Saturday was a reminder of his incredible talent and why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time. He showed that he is still capable of dominating games even after a lengthy injury layoff. His two goals and assist were instrumental in Inter Miami’s victory, and they helped him to break a new MLS record.
Messi’s return is a huge boost for Inter Miami, who are already in contention for the MLS Supporters’ Shield. With Messi back in the fold, they will be a formidable force in the second half of the season.
Messi's Impact on Inter Miami
Messi has been a game-changer for Inter Miami since joining the club in July. He has helped to elevate the team to new heights and has made them a legitimate contender for the MLS Cup. His impact on the team has been undeniable, both on and off the field.
His arrival has brought a new level of excitement to Inter Miami, and it has also helped to attract some of the best players in the world to the club. With Messi on the team, Inter Miami is now one of the most popular teams in MLS.
Messi's Future in MLS
Messi’s future in MLS is still up in the air. He has a one-year contract with Inter Miami, and he has not ruled out a return to Europe. However, it seems likely that he will remain with Inter Miami for at least the rest of the season.
If he does stay, it will be interesting to see how he performs in the second half of the season. He is already making a big impact, and he could be even more dominant with more time to adjust to the league and his new teammates.
Messi’s arrival in MLS has been a major boost for the league. He has helped to raise the profile of the league and has shown the world that MLS is a competitive and exciting league.
Messi, The GOAT
Messi has been a dominant force in the world of football for almost two decades. He has won everything there is to win, and he has set countless records. His impact on the game is undeniable.
Messi’s arrival in MLS is a major moment for the league. He is one of the greatest players of all time, and he has the potential to make a huge impact on the league. It will be exciting to see what he can achieve in the years to come.
