Lionel Messi created yet another piece of history during his return for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami.
Back in July, the Argentine legend suffered an ankle injury during a Copa America clash against Colombia.
On Saturday night, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner made his return as Inter Miami took on Philadelphia Union at the Chase Stadium.
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Gerardo Martino’s men ended up winning 3-1 with Messi netting a brace and former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez scoring a third. Mikael Uhre was the scorer for the visitors.
Messi was involved in all three goals as he provided the assist for Suarez’s strike.
As a result, he has become the fastest player in MLS history to reach 15 goals and 15 assists, taking just 19 matches to achieve the landmark.
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Speaking after the match, Messi said: “As we said at the beginning, we know the squad we have, and [winning the Supporters' Shield] is a goal. We are realistic and take responsibility.
“The truth is that throughout the year, we had a lot of bad luck with injuries. We were never at full strength – due to one thing or another, we were always missing players, but the team always pushed forward.”
He added: “Today, we are in first place with a big lead, and deservedly so. Hopefully, we can finish at the top for what it means and for what's to come after as well.”
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Inter Miami are currently top of the MLS standings with 62 points, 10 ahead of second-placed FC Cincinnati.
Manager Martino said: “I'm happy that he (Messi) finished the game well, that he was able to complete 90 minutes, that he felt good.
“Messi and [Luis] Suarez both played the entire game, because they were good to finish the game. The reality is that it is very difficult to remove players who are so differential because they appear and resolve at any time. In the position we were in and everything we have ahead of us, the risk is one to take.”
He continued: “That is to say, we no longer have the obligation to think about the playoffs because we have already achieved it. Now we have to think about the achievements that can occur in the short term. And the risks, I'm not saying excessively, but we are going to take the risks.”
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Inter Miami will be back in MLS action on September 18 when they take on Atlanta United.
Topics: Lionel Messi, MLS, Inter Miami, Football
Marcus Chan