Home
Messi is back.
In a thrilling 2024 MLS playoffs rematch encounter between Inter Miami and Atlanta United on Sunday, Lionel Messi made his return to the club starting XI, having an incredible display in The Herons' crucial 2-1 win at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Messi's return to Inter Miami's starting XI was off to a rough start, with Javier Mascerano's men found themselves trailing just 10 minutes into the match when Emmanuel Latte Lath hit the back of the net.
The most expensive signing in MLS history.
The No. 10, however, took matter into his own hands, scoring an incredible equalizer that displayed his signature flair — embarassing goalkeepers with lobbed goals. Positioned at the edge of Atlanta's 18-yard box, the 37-year-old Argentine intercepted a pass, stealing the ball away from a defender.
Watch: Lionel Messi goal vs. Atlanta United
With a deft fake shot that left his marker on the ground, Messi coolly chipped the ball over the head of former U.S. men's national team goalkeeper Brad Guzan, finding the back of the net with a perfectly executed lob. It's just what he does.
This remarkable strike marked Messi’s first start for Inter Miami since their 3-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City in the Concacaf Champions Cup on February 25th. It was also his fourth goal of the season, adding to his impressive tally of two assists for a total of six goal contributions in just five games across all competitions.
The night would only get better for Messi and company, though, as they would find a late opportunity to seal the comeback win when a Fafa Picault header defeated a superb Guzan in the 89th minute to hand all three points to the Fort Lauderdale club.
Inter Miami are now the Eastern Conference leaders with 10 points in four games.
