Legend Returns: Lionel Messi Scores 2 Goals For Inter Miami

Lionel Messi marked his comeback from injury with an exceptional performance, netting two goals and providing an assist, propelling Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over Philadelphia Union. This is prepared by SSP.

The World Cup-winning Argentina captain had been sidelined since sustaining an ankle injury during his nation's Copa America win over Colombia in July, missing a series of games for both club and country. His absence saw him miss the recent World Cup qualifiers and eight matches for Inter Miami. Nevertheless, he returned in full form in his first Las Vegas start in three months, completing the entire 90 minutes and dominating the game.

Philadelphia took the early lead within 59 seconds via Mikael Uhre, but Inter Miami equalized in the 26th minute. Messi received a pass from Luis Suarez, got past a defender, and scored. Minutes after his first goal, Messi struck again in the 30th minute, assisted by Jordi Alba, which put his team ahead. Suarez later secured the win with a goal during second-half injury time, set up by Messi once again.

Messi now boasts 14 goals in 13 games this season for Inter Miami, positioning him behind D.C. United's Christian Benteke. Post-match, Messi, expressing his joy at returning to action, admitted to feeling "a little tired," and emphasized his gradual reintegration into the team through consistent training.

Inter Miami's win consolidates their MLS-leading record at 19-4-5, securing a stronghold at the top with 62 points, leaving them 10 points clear of LA Galaxy and FC Cincinnati in the Supporters' Shield race. Additionally, elsewhere in the MLS, the LA Galaxy rallied from a two-goal deficit to outmaneuver Los Angeles FC, clinching a 4-2 victory.