Messi marks comeback with two goals in 3-1 win

Lionel Messi made a triumphant return from a lengthy absence, scoring twice and assisting once to lead Inter Miami to a 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union on Sunday morning (Bangladesh time).

Messi, back in action after a two-month hiatus due to an ankle injury sustained during the Copa America Final, made an immediate impact. The Argentine striker, making his first appearance since June 1, was instrumental in Miami’s win at Chase Stadium.

In the 26th minute, Messi opened the scoring with an assist from his former Barcelona teammate, Luis Suarez. Just four minutes later, Messi doubled Miami’s lead with another goal, this time from a back pass by Jordi Alba. Both goals came before half-time, putting Inter Miami ahead.

Suarez had a goal in the 44th minute disallowed after a VAR review showed an offside infraction. In the 67th minute, Messi was kicked by Philadelphia midfielder Quinn Sullivan while vying for the ball, but quickly resumed play after a brief pause. Both Sullivan and Inter Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino received yellow cards for the incident.

Philadelphia, trailing 2-1, pressed for an equaliser throughout the second half but were ultimately undone by Messi’s assist to Suarez, who scored from 18 yards. Messi had previously scored 12 goals and provided 13 assists in 12 league matches before his absence.

Both teams will continue their league campaigns with away fixtures on Wednesday. Inter Miami will face Atlanta, while Philadelphia will visit New York City FC.