Lionel Messi made an impressive return to the field, showcasing his skills by scoring two goals and assisting another in Inter Miami's 3-1 triumph over the Philadelphia Union. His presence was pivotal in securing a vital win for the team.
This match marked Messi’s comeback after a two-month absence due to a right ankle injury sustained during the Copa America final on July 14. Fans had eagerly anticipated his return, as his last game for Inter Miami was on June 1 against St. Louis City, leaving a noticeable gap for both his teammates and supporters.
Despite the sweltering Miami heat, Messi demonstrated remarkable stamina, playing the full 90 minutes. His ability to perform at an elite level under such conditions highlighted his exceptional talent and dedication.
Inter Miami’s coach, Gerardo Martino, praised Messi’s transformative influence on the game, noting his knack for stepping up in crucial moments. Martino stated, “It’s very difficult to remove players who are so differential because they appear and resolve at any time.” He added that while the team has already secured a playoff position, they are focused on short-term goals and are open to taking strategic risks for further success.
In addition to his stellar performance, Messi made MLS history by becoming the fastest player to achieve 15 goals and 15 assists, doing so in just 19 games. This remarkable feat surpassed the previous record of 29 games set by Sebastian Giovinco, further solidifying Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.