Messi returns without mercy

Lionel Messi made a spectacular comeback from injury on Saturday, scoring twice within just four minutes and providing an assist in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner had been sidelined since July 14, when he injured his right ankle during the Copa America final, where he helped Argentina secure a win over Colombia.

Messi missed eight MLS matches for Inter Miami and this month’s World Cup qualifiers. Despite not having played for Inter since June 1, he seamlessly rejoined the starting lineup.

After the game, Messi admitted, “I’m a bit tired. The heat and humidity in Miami don’t make it easier, but I was eager to come back after being off the field for so long. I’ve been training with the team, feeling good, which is why we decided I would start, and I’m very happy very happy.”

Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino was thrilled to see Messi perform well after a full 90 minutes.

Philadelphia took an early lead in the second minute with a left-footed shot from Mikael Uhre outside the area.

Messi equalized in the 26th minute, receiving a pass from Luis Suarez, evading defender Kai Wagner, and scoring with a right-footed shot, following a play started by Jordi Alba on the left.

The celebration from ecstatic fans was still ongoing when Messi put Inter ahead in the 30th minute. He connected with Alba once again and scored with a left-footed shot from the center of the area into the bottom right corner.