Messi Scores As Inter Miami Beat LA Galaxy
Lionel Messi returned from injury to score a decisive late goal as Inter Miami defeated defending champions Los Angeles Galaxy 3-1 in a Major League Soccer clash on Saturday.
The 38-year-old Argentine came off the bench in the second half and struck in the 84th minute to put Miami ahead, before Luis Suárez sealed the victory five minutes later with a close-range finish from Messi’s assist.
Jordi Alba had earlier put the hosts in front in the 43rd minute, only for Joseph Paintsil to level for the Galaxy after the interval. Messi’s introduction, however, shifted the momentum as Miami secured three vital points in the Eastern Conference race.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner had been sidelined with a minor hamstring strain sustained during Miami’s Leagues Cup victory over Mexican side Necaxa earlier this month. Coach Javier Mascherano, who confirmed Messi was not fully fit, said his gradual return was part of a plan to ease him back into action.
“We wanted to give him about 45 minutes to regain rhythm,” Mascherano explained after the match. “He is an extraordinary player. Even when not 100 per cent, he makes the difference.”
Messi, who missed Miami’s Leagues Cup win against Pumas UNAM and last weekend’s MLS defeat to Orlando City, now has 19 goals and 10 assists in 19 league appearances this season.
The victory keeps Miami in fourth place on the table, six points behind leaders Philadelphia Union but with three games in hand. The Herons also face Tigres in the Leagues Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, South Korea’s Son Heung-min secured his first MLS win with Los Angeles FC, setting up the stoppage-time clincher in a 2-0 away victory over New England Revolution.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
