WATCH: Lionel Messi wows fans with stunning solo goal and outrageous back-heel assist on injury return for Inter Miami
Messi returns from injury with a dazzling solo strike and clever assist as Inter Miami defeat LA Galaxy to climb back in the MLS race.
New Delhi: It was one of those nights that reminded the world why Lionel Messi still holds football in the palm of his hand. After two weeks out with hamstring issues, the Argentine stepped onto the Chase Stadium pitch on Saturday night and immediately bent the game to his will. By the time the final whistle blew, Inter Miami had beaten the LA Galaxy 3-1 and Messi had once again left defenders sprawled in his wake.
He left both Lucas Sanabria and Edwin Cerrillo gasping at shadows in the 84th minute as Messi slalomed past and rifled home a trademark low strike from distance and makes it 2-1.
Just minutes later he conjured up something even more audacious, a no-look heel flick that got Galaxy backline split and rolled perfectly into the path of Luis Suarez for Miami's clincher. In the space of 45 minutes, Miami captain turned a deadlock contest into another chapter of his highlight reel.
Miami bounce back after Orlando setback
Messi's cameo did more than just seal the three points as he helped his side erase the bitter taste of the 4-2 defeat they suffered against Orlando City a week earlier and it sparked his teammates back to life. Suarez looked razor-sharp alongside him, Jordi Alba added a goal of his own and the Herons once again looked like the powerhouse that stormed through last season.
The win also pushed Miami back near the top both the Eastern Conference and Supporters' Shield race. With games in hand thanks to their FIFA Club World Cup participation, the numbers suggest they are in a strong position. Even without Messi, this team has shown it can grind out results but the difference is undeniable.
Mascherano cautions despite magic return
Head coach Javier Mascherano was quick to underline the importance of the result. He admitted postgame, "It was vital. What happened in Orlando was an accident. Tonight we wanted to show our true image.”
Yet even amid celebration, there was a lingering note of caution. Messi appeared to wince slightly after securing his goal, favouring the right leg that kept him sidelined earlier this month. Mascherano acknowledged the concern saying Messi is not 100% comfortable but he loosened up as the minutes ticked by. How Messi feels in the morning will be the true test.