Lionel Messi Scores Twice in Comeback to Lead Inter Miami Over Philadelphia Union

Lionel Messi returns from injury to score a brace and provide an assist as Inter Miami secures a 3-1 win over Philadelphia Union in MLS. Read the full match recap.

Lionel Messi’s Stunning Return Propels Inter Miami to Victory Over Philadelphia Union

After a long injury layoff, Lionel Messi made a spectacular comeback for Inter Miami, scoring twice and assisting in a thrilling 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union in MLS action. Messi, who had been sidelined since July 14 after suffering an ankle ligament injury in the Copa America final, marked his return in grand style, helping Miami maintain its dominance in the league.

Messi’s performance, which included his 13th and 14th MLS goals and 14th assist, was instrumental in Miami's success. His return was keenly awaited by fans, as the Argentine had not played since June 1 due to his participation in Argentina’s Copa America campaign. Despite his time off, Messi showed no signs of rust, immediately making an impact on the field.

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The match began with Philadelphia Union taking an early lead through Mikael Uhre, who found the net in the opening minutes. The Union, who started the night in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, were fighting to stay in the playoff race. Despite outshooting Miami 20-9 and dominating possession for much of the game, Philadelphia was unable to convert their chances, thanks in large part to the exceptional goalkeeping of Drake Callender, who made seven crucial saves.

Inter Miami’s resilience showed as Messi, along with his teammates, began to shift the game’s momentum. In the 26th minute, Messi combined brilliantly with Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez to level the score. Alba’s pass found Suárez, who skillfully laid it off for Messi to evade a challenge and fire a low shot past Philadelphia goalkeeper Andrew Rick.

Just four minutes later, Messi struck again. Alba sent a perfect cross into the penalty area, and Messi, positioned at the spot, calmly guided the ball into the net. Rick managed to get a hand on it, but the power and precision of Messi’s shot made it impossible to stop.

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Despite heavy pressure from Philadelphia in the second half, Miami's defense stood strong. Messi played a key role in keeping the team composed and focused, contributing again in the final moments of the game. On a breakaway, Messi laid the ball off for Suárez, who curled a brilliant shot into the bottom left corner to seal the victory. Suárez’s goal was his 17th of the season, keeping him in contention for the MLS Golden Boot, just two behind D.C. United’s Christian Benteke.

Jordi Alba, who assisted both of Messi’s goals, also had an outstanding game, further solidifying his chemistry with his former Barcelona teammates. Alba now has 12 assists on the season, proving to be an invaluable asset to Miami’s attack.

With this victory, Miami extended their unbeaten streak to five games and became the first team in the league to surpass the 60-point mark. Their consistency has kept them in the lead for the Supporters’ Shield, with a record of 19-4-5 and 62 points. Despite Messi's absence for much of the summer, Miami has remained a dominant force in MLS, thanks in part to the contributions of players like Suárez, Alba, and Callender.

For Philadelphia, the result was disappointing, but they can take solace in their performance. Despite the loss, the Union showed flashes of brilliance and were unlucky not to score more. However, their wastefulness in front of goal and Miami’s clinical finishing proved to be the difference on the night.

Messi’s return marks a new chapter for Inter Miami as they continue their pursuit of silverware this season. With Messi back in the fold, Miami looks poised to maintain their strong run of form, making them serious contenders for the MLS Cup.