Messi returns and scores twice as Inter Miami defeats Union 3-1

Lionel Messi shines in Inter Miami's 3-1 win over Philadelphia Union after injury absence, scoring two goals.

Lionel Messi made a successful return after a lengthy absence, scoring two goals and assisting on the third to lead Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union on Saturday (September 14, 2024) night.

The Argentine star winger and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner had not played with Inter Miami since June 1 because of national team commitments and a right ankle injury sustained in a 1-0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final on July 14.

“What he did was more typical than other things that happened tonight,” Inter Miami coach coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino said in Spanish. “I am happy that he finished the game and completed the 90 minutes. He felt fine.”

Messi, who resumed practicing three weeks ago, showed no rust or ill-effects from the injury with his performance. He scored twice in a four-minute span midway through the first half that negated an early goal by Philadelphia.

Without Messi, Miami went 8-2 and clinched an MLS playoff spot. Miami (19-4-5) also took the lead in the Supporters Shield table with 62 points.

“It’s nice to see that his injury has healed and that he’s as effective as he was before,” Inter Miami midfielder Julian Gressel said.

Luis Suárez had one assist and clinched Miami’s win with a strike on Messi’s assist during second half stoppage time. It was Suárez’s 17th goal of the season.