Video: Lionel Messi scores outstanding goal for Inter Miami against Philadelphia Union in MLS return from injury

After missing the international break with Argentina due to a minor injury, fans were eager to see Lionel Messi back in action for Inter Miami. Entering as a substitute, the star forward made an immediate impact, marking his return to the MLS with a stunning goal against the Philadelphia Union.

There were concerns before kickoff, as Messi did not join the rest of the team for pregame warmups, hinting that he might start on the bench. After a brief warmup session during the match, he came on in the 55th minute to replace Robert Taylor, who had opened the scoring for Inter Miami.

Just two minutes later, Messi delivered a moment of brilliance. Following a ball recovery by Luis Suarez in midfield, the Uruguayan played a quick pass to Fafa Picault, who returned it to the striker after drawing the defenders. Suarez then slipped a perfectly timed pass into the box, finding Messi one-on-one with a defender. After a clever feint to shake off his marker, Messi slotted the ball into the net with his right foot, capping off a clinical counterattack in the 57th minute.

The goal helped seal a huge 2-1 win for Inter Miami, as Philadelphia entered the match atop the Eastern Conference standings. With the victory, Inter Miami remains unbeaten and climbs to the top of the league with only five games played.

Messi’s outstanding numbers despite lingering injuries

The start of the 2025 season has been a mix of highs and lows for Lionel Messi. After making a strong impact in the opening matches, he was sidelined for three games due to muscular fatigue. Then, in the last MLS game against Atlanta United, he sustained a minor left adductor injury, confirmed by an MRI, which forced him to miss Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil.

However, the setbacks haven’t affected his form—quite the opposite. So far in the season, Messi has played six matches—three in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and three in MLS—scoring five goals and providing two assists, reaffirming his status as a constant attacking threat.