Lionel Messi (foto: Getty Images)
Lionel Messi returned from injury with a stunning goal moments after coming on for Inter Miami—and celebrated by dedicating it to Novak Djokovic.
Lionel Messi made a stunning return to the pitch, scoring just two minutes after coming on to help Inter Miami secure a 2-1 win over Philadelphia Union in a top-of-the-table clash in the MLS Eastern Conference.
The home side took the lead in the 23rd minute through Robert Taylor, but it was the 55th minute substitution that electrified the Miami crowd—Taylor made way for Messi, who had missed Argentina’s international break due to an adductor injury and was a major doubt for this game.
Fit enough to play around 30 minutes, Messi needed just two to remind everyone of his brilliance. After a swift counterattack, Luis Suárez played him in one-on-one with Ian Glavinovich. The Argentine maestro delivered a signature dribble before calmly placing the ball into the net for 2-0—a move reminiscent of his classic finishes, even if Glavinovich didn’t quite collapse like Boateng in 2015.
Messi’s goal celebration stole headlines, too. After hugging teammates, he turned to the crowd and mimicked a forehand swing, a tribute to Novak Djokovic. The two recently met in Miami, and Messi’s gesture suggested the Serbian tennis legend left quite an impression.
Philadelphia managed a consolation goal in the 80th minute through Daniel Gazdag, but the night belonged to Messi, whose instant impact lit up DRV PNK Stadium once again.