Argentine star Lionel Messi scored two goals as Inter Miami won 3-1 over Philadelphia Union, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Sunday (15/9/2024) IST. This result brings Inter Miami closer to the American Soccer League (MLS) title.
Messi scored two goals in just four minutes. The first goal was scored in the 26th minute. Then the second goal in the 30th minute. This match marked Messi’s first appearance since suffering an injury for two months after participating in the 2024 Copa America.
Despite playing at home, Inter Miami actually fell behind first after just 2 minutes of play. Philadelphia’s Mikael Uhre from Denmark received the ball outside the penalty box, dribbled past the home defender, then fired a low shot to beat goalkeeper Drake Callender.
However, Inter Miami quickly regained their spirit, inspired by Messi. The Argentine striker equalized the score at 1-1 in the 26th minute. He received a pass from Luis Suarez, tricked his way past a defender, then unleashed a diagonal right-footed shot past goalkeeper Vincent Rick.
Just four minutes later, Messi completed his brace. From Jordi Alba’s low cross into the penalty area, the home captain fired home past the Philadelphia Union goalkeeper. It was Messi’s 16th goal in 16 games for Inter Miami this season, five more than all of last season.
His achievements could have been higher if not for his injury at the start of the season after the Copa America.
In the final minutes of the match, Inter Miami continued to press the ball with short plays. Their efforts paid off in the 90+8 minute. Messi played the ball in front of the Philadelphia Union defense then passed the ball to Suarez to shoot into the left corner to seal a 3-1 win.
It was the Uruguayan forward’s 20th goal in 27 games this season, taking him to the top of Inter Miami’s scoring charts.
The win puts Inter Miami at the top of the MLS standings with 62 points after 28 rounds, 10 points more than second-placed LA Galaxy.
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