FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA — Lionel Messi made a triumphant return from a hamstring injury on Saturday, proving once again why his presence is a game-changer for Inter Miami. Coming on as a halftime substitute, the Argentine superstar scored one goal and provided a breathtaking backheel assist for Luis Suárez, leading his team to a 3-1 victory over reigning champions LA Galaxy.
The crowd at DRV PNK Stadium was electric from the moment Messi stepped onto the pitch. Within minutes, the chants of “Messi! Messi! Messi!” erupted, a sound that only grew louder as the match progressed. Messi’s trademark brilliance was on full display in the decisive moments of the game. He scored Inter Miami’s second goal with a clean strike that found the back of the net, giving his team the lead.
However, it was his no-look backheel assist to Suárez late in the second half that left fans and the opposition stunned. The pass sliced through the LA Galaxy defense, setting up a clinical finish that made the score 3-1. The moment was widely shared on social media, with fans expressing awe at Messi’s vision and genius. Many also took the opportunity to demand his return to European football, where he played for over two decades with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, praised Messi’s competitive spirit, stating, “He wants to play every single game. You have to understand why Leo is Leo, because he always wants to be on the pitch.” Messi had been sidelined since August 2 with a hamstring strain, and his return is a timely boost for Inter Miami as they prepare for a crucial Leagues Cup quarterfinal clash against Mexican powerhouse Tigres UANL on Wednesday. For the LA Galaxy, the defeat came as they had rotated their squad heavily in anticipation of their own quarterfinal match.