Messi Returns and Scores Twice as Inter Miami Defeats Union 3–1

Messi Returns and Scores Twice as Inter Miami Defeats Union 3–1
Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) kicks the ball away from Philadelphia Union midfielder Leon Flach (31) during the first half of an MLS soccer match in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Sept. 14, 2024. Marta Lavandier/AP Photo
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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.—Lionel Messi made a successful return after a lengthy absence, scoring two goals and assisting on the third to lead Inter Miami to a 3–1 victory over the Philadelphia Union on Saturday night.

The Argentine star winger and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner had not played with Inter Miami since June 1 because of national team commitments and a right ankle injury sustained in a 1–0 victory over Colombia in the Copa America final on July 14.