Lionel Messi netted two goals in a span of four minutes to lead Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union in his return to the club after a three-month absence.
Messi’s brace in the 26th and 30th minutes helped Inter Miami secure a 2-1 lead in the first half, extending their MLS-best record to 19-4-5.
After falling behind just 59 seconds into the game, Inter Miami equalized through Messi’s 13th goal of the season, capitalizing on a well-executed team play.
The Argentine superstar then put his team ahead with a clinical finish from a Jordi Alba cross, giving Inter Miami the lead they would not relinquish.
Luis Suárez sealed the victory with a goal in the 98th minute, assisted by Messi, who notched his 15th assist of the season.
With 14 goals to his name, Messi trails D.C. United’s Christian Benteke by five goals in the MLS scoring charts, despite playing 12 fewer games.
Long road back for Messi
Having been sidelined since June 1 due to an ankle ligament injury sustained in the Copa América final on July 14, Messi made a triumphant return to action for Inter Miami.
Although initially uncertain about his involvement, head coach Tata Martino confirmed Messi’s return, emphasizing the player’s importance to the team.
Martino had previously indicated that Messi would rejoin the squad before the start of the MLS playoffs on October 23, underscoring the forward’s significance to Inter Miami’s postseason ambitions.
During Messi’s absence, Inter Miami maintained a solid run of form, going 10-3-1 in all competitions, despite being eliminated from the Leagues Cup by the Columbus Crew.
Currently atop the MLS standings with 62 points, Inter Miami holds a 10-point lead over closest rivals Los Angeles Galaxy and FC Cincinnati in the race for the Supporters’ Shield.