Messi’s Second Half Appearance Can’t Inspire Inter Miami to Victory Despite Draw
Lionel Messi’s highly-anticipated return to the pitch has become a regular occurrence this season, and last night was no exception. Inter Miami’s star man didn’t start the match but came on as a 61st-minute substitute as his side drew 2-2 with Atlanta United.
With Inter Miami dealing with a busy schedule and Messi still recovering from his recent injury, coach Gerardo Martino decided to err on the side of caution and keep his megastar on the bench. The decision paid off, as Messi’s side was able to take a 2-1 lead into the final 30 minutes of the match before Atlanta United’s Aleksei Miranchuk slotted home a stunning late equalizer.
Messi’s 14th game of the season saw him play just 29 minutes, but he still made an impact. He managed to get a shot saved in the 75th minute, which could’ve sealed the win for the Herons. Despite only playing a limited role in the match, Messi remains Inter Miami’s most impactful player, with 14 goals and 14 assists in just 14 starts.
The draw sees Miami remain top of the Eastern Conference, but the margin between them and second-place Philadelphia Union is now only two points. With so much at stake, next Saturday’s visit to NYCFC will be a thrilling encounter.
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