MLS: Messi returns with two goals, assist to lead Inter Miami to 3-1 win

Lionel Messi made a remarkable return to the field, scoring twice and assisting once to lead Inter Miami to a 3-1 win over the Philadelphia Union.

Messi had been sidelined for two months due to a right ankle injury sustained during the Copa America final on July 14.

His last appearance for Inter Miami was on June 1 against St. Louis City. Despite the sweltering Miami heat, Messi played the full 90 minutes.

Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino praised Messi’s ability to make a difference at any moment.

“It’s very difficult to remove players who are so differential because they appear and resolve at any time.”

Martino emphasized that while Inter Miami had already secured a playoff spot, they are now focused on potential short-term achievements and are willing to take some risks.

Messi also made MLS history, becoming the fastest player to reach 15 goals and 15 assists in just 19 games, breaking the previous record held by Sebastian Giovinco, who achieved the feat in 29 games.

Inter Miami now sits atop the Eastern Conference standings with 62 points from 28 games.