Lionel Messi made a strong return from a 62-day injury layoff with a standout performance for Inter Miami. After missing out since Argentina's Copa América final on June 1, Messi scored two goals in the first half and helped set up another during a 3-1 win against the Philadelphia Union on Saturday night at Chase Stadium. Both of Messi's goals came just three minutes and 29 seconds apart, thanks to assists from Jordi Alba.
"I was really eager to come back after a long time off," Messi said through a translator. "I started training again with the team, felt good, so we decided I would start. I'm very happy and pleased."
Messi now has 14 goals and 14 assists in just over 1,100 minutes of play, putting him fifth in the MLS Golden Boot race. With six regular-season games left, Inter Miami is leading the Supporters' Shield race and has already secured a spot in the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs. They are also on track to set a new single-season points record.
Messi acknowledged that the team faced many injuries throughout the year, but they have pushed through and are now in a strong position. "We are realistic and responsible," he said. "Hopefully, we can finish strong and continue to do well in the future."
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