Lionel Messi made his long-awaited return to action on Saturday night, coming off the bench to change the game and secure a 3-1 victory for Inter Miami over reigning MLS champions Los Angeles Galaxy.
Return from the Sidelines
Messi, sidelined since early August with a minor muscle issue, entered the match in the second half to roaring applause. Though visibly short of full fitness, the 38-year-old Argentine legend wasted no time stamping his influence on the contest.
The Match Narrative
Miami struck first through Jordi Alba just before halftime, but the Galaxy leveled in the 59th minute courtesy of Joseph Paintsil. With the score finely poised, Messi provided the breakthrough in the 84th minute, slipping past defenders and finding the net with trademark precision. Minutes later, Luis Suárez sealed the result with an 89th-minute goal set up by Messi himself.
Messi’s Numbers This Season
Despite missing matches in recent weeks, Messi has been relentless in MLS play. He now boasts 19 goals and 10 assists in 19 appearances for Miami, maintaining his status as the league’s most feared attacker. His return also boosts Miami’s push in both league play and the Leagues Cup, where the Herons face Tigres in the quarter-finals midweek.
Manager’s Perspective
Coach Javier Mascherano stressed that Messi’s minutes were carefully managed, noting the aim was to rebuild rhythm without risking further setbacks. “He always wants to play every game,” Mascherano said post-match. “We tried to give him minutes to regain feeling for what’s ahead.”
Wider MLS Picture
The win keeps Inter Miami firmly in the Eastern Conference chase, sitting fourth but with matches in hand on the leaders. Meanwhile, elsewhere in the league, Son Heung-min notched his first MLS victory as LAFC downed New England 2-0, marking a promising start for the South Korean star in the Western Conference.
