MLS
Lionel Messi makes more MLS history on Inter Miami return against Philadelphia Union
The former Barcelona star scored twice and set up a goal for Luis Suárez as The Herons posted another MLS victory at Chase Stadium.
Lionel Messi marked his return from an ankle injury in style, scoring twice and setting up a goal for Luis Suárez in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over Philadelphia Union in MLS at Chase Stadium on Saturday.
Messi “tired but happy” after injury comeback
After the game, the former Barcelona star told Apple TV of his joy at being back after a two-month layoff, although claimed coming back wasn’t as easy as he made it look.
“The truth is that I’m a little tired. On top of that, the heat and humidity of Miami don’t help much either. I really wanted to come back, I spent a lot of time away from the field. Little by little, I started training again with the group, I started feeling good and that’s why we decided that I would start. I’m very happy, very pleased.”
As for Inter Miami’s aspirations for the remainder of the season, the Argentina captain is setting his sights high: “As we said at the beginning of the season, we know the squad we have and winning the title (the MLS Cup) is an objective. We’re realistic but we have to take responsibility. We’ve had a lot of bad luck with injuries this year, we’ve never been at full strength for one reason or another. We’ve always been missing players.
“But the group has always kept looking forward. As it stands, we’re well clear at the top (10 points ahead of FC Cincinnati in the Western Conference, seven better off than LA Galaxy overall) and deservedly so. Hopefully we can finish on top for everything that means (winning the Supporters’ Shield) and for what comes after that too (the MLS Cup),” added the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Las Garzas’ next match will see them visit Atlanta United on Wednesday, September 18.
Messi’s incredible goal contribution stats in MLS
By scoring twice and setting up another against the Union, Messi became the MLS player to net 15 goals and provide 15 assists in the fewest games: 19. A slightly odd stat, perhaps, but 30 goal contributions in 19 appearances (1.58 per game) shows the huge impact the Argentine has had since moving stateside.
With the 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs getting underway with the Wild Card round on October 23, Inter Miami head coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino will be desperate for Messi and his other stars to steer clear of injuries, and finally be able to field his strongest team for a run of games.
The Herons have been installed as red-hot favourites to win the MLS Cup for the first time as a result of the consistency they have shown in the regular season, despite countless fitness issues and absences due to international call-ups.