Messi Leads Inter Miami to Victory Over Philadelphia Union
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — In a thrilling match on Saturday night, Lionel Messi made a remarkable return for Inter Miami by scoring the decisive goal in a 2-1 win against the Philadelphia Union. This victory propelled Inter Miami to the top of the Eastern Conference in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Quick Impact After Return
Messi’s comeback was felt almost immediately after he entered the field early in the second half. Substituted in during the 55th minute, he found the back of the net just two minutes later, assisted by Luis Suarez. Messi received a pass from the right side of the penalty box, skillfully maneuvered around two defenders, and executed a precise right-footed shot that secured a 2-0 lead for his team.
Goals Summary
- 23rd Minute: Robert Taylor opens the scoring for Inter Miami, giving them a 1-0 lead at halftime with assists from Benjamin Cremaschi and Jordi Alba.
- 57th Minute: Lionel Messi scores to extend Miami’s lead to 2-0, with assistance from Suarez and Fafa Picault.
- 80th Minute: Daniel Gazdag nets a goal for Philadelphia Union, reducing the deficit to 2-1.
Injury Recovery and Performance
Messi’s impressive performance came after recently overcoming an adductor injury that had sidelined him from two World Cup qualifiers for Argentina. Although he was also managing a thigh issue, Messi’s presence on the pitch has been impactful since joining Inter Miami, where he has made his mark in every MLS match he has played this season. Out of three MLS appearances, he has registered at least one point in each, contributing to Miami’s overall record of 4-0-1 in MLS play, and an unbeaten streak of 8-0-1 across all competitions.
Looking Ahead
Following this victory, Philadelphia Union (4-2-0) will return home to face Orlando City next Saturday. Meanwhile, Inter Miami will continue their CONCACAF Champions League campaign against LAFC on Wednesday, before resuming MLS action at home against Toronto FC next Sunday.
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