Messi Makes His Return: Inter Miami’s Star Inspires 3-1 Win Over Philadelphia Union
Lionel Messi made his highly anticipated return to the pitch on Saturday night, and boy did he make it count! The Argentine superstar scored two goals and provided one assist, playing a full 90 minutes, as Inter Miami defeated the Philadelphia Union 3-1 at Chase Stadium.
After a two-month layoff due to a right ankle injury, Messi looked like he’d never left the pitch. He was his usual self, creating chances and making an impact from the very start. His teammates looked up to him, and he didn’t disappoint. "A little tired, the humidity and heat of Miami doesn’t help much, but I really wanted to get back, it was a lot of time off the field," Messi said in his post-match interview. "Little by little I found myself with the group, I felt good and that’s why we decided that I would start. I am very happy."
Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino was thrilled with Messi’s performance, citing his ability to make a difference at any point as the reason he was able to play the full 90 minutes. "I’m happy that he finished the game well, that he was able to complete 90 minutes, that he felt good," Martino said. "Messi and [Luis] Suarez both played the entire game, because they were good to finish the game. The reality is that it is very difficult to remove players who are so differential because they appear and resolve at any time."
Messi’s performance was not only impressive but also historic. He became the fastest player in MLS history to reach 15 goals and 15 assists, doing so in just 19 games. This achievement surpasses Sebastian Giovinco’s record of 29 games.
With this win, Inter Miami solidified their position at the top of the Eastern Conference and Supporters’ Shield standings. They now have 62 points in 28 games, with a 19-4-5 record. The team is on course to break the league’s record for most points in a regular season.
As Inter Miami looks to the future, they’ll face Atlanta United on Wednesday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With six games left before the playoffs, the Herons will be looking to maintain their momentum and secure a top spot in the standings.
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