Inter Miami’s 3-1 Win Over LA Galaxy. Lionel Messi Marks Injury Return with Goal and Assist

Lionel Messi proved once again why he is the heartbeat of Inter Miami as he inspired a 3-1 comeback victory over defending MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy on Saturday night. Returning from a two-game absence due to a right hamstring injury, the Argentine maestro scored a stunning goal in the 84th minute before assisting Luis Suárez to seal the win. With this, Messi moved to 19 goals in the MLS season, keeping him at the top of the scoring charts.

Messi’s Long-Awaited Return

Fans inside Chase Stadium had been anxiously waiting for Messi’s comeback since he picked up a hamstring injury against Necaxa in the Leagues Cup on August 2. Inter Miami struggled without him, suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat to Orlando City, which highlighted just how crucial Messi is to their attacking play.

On Saturday, Messi started on the bench but entered at halftime, instantly lifting the energy of the crowd. Within minutes, he attempted two shots—both narrowly missing—but it was clear he was edging closer to a decisive moment.

Match Highlights

43rd Minute: Jordi Alba put Miami ahead after slotting in a pass from Sergio Busquets, showing glimpses of Barcelona’s golden trio.

BUSI ➡️ JORDI 😮‍💨👏 pic.twitter.com/YiFV4Iq6Fr

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) August 17, 2025

59th Minute: LA Galaxy equalized through Joseph Paintsil, raising doubts about Miami’s ability to respond.

84th Minute: Messi broke the deadlock with a trademark left-footed strike from distance, sending Chase Stadium into raptures.

MESSI VOLVIÓ CON GOL ⚽️🔥#InterMiami derrotó 3-1 a #LAGalaxy en la J29 de la #MLS.

🇦🇷 Lionel Messi ingresó al minuto 46, anotó el segundo gol de su equipo y asistió a Luis Suárez para sentenciar la victoria.

📹 InterMiamiCFpic.twitter.com/fy0QpO8WyY

— ONCE Diario (@oncediariomx) August 17, 2025

89th Minute: To cap off his night, Messi provided a cheeky back-heel assist to Luis Suárez, who finished calmly for Miami’s third.

This performance not only secured a vital three points but also underlined the Messi-Suárez-Alba-Busquets reunion as one of the most entertaining storylines in MLS right now.

Fitness Concerns Still Linger

Despite his brilliance, Messi was visibly not at full fitness. He was seen stretching his hamstring several times and immediately walked down the tunnel after the final whistle. Coach Javier Mascherano admitted post-match:

“He clearly wasn’t 100% comfortable… But as the minutes went by, he loosened up. The important thing is he finished the game.”

With a crucial Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Tigres UANL coming up on August 20, followed by a league clash with D.C. United on August 23, Messi’s recovery will be closely monitored.

Why This Win Matters for Inter Miami

Inter Miami had slipped to sixth in the Eastern Conference before this game, making the victory essential to stay in the playoff race. Messi’s return ensures Miami have their talisman back for the final stretch of the season. His 19 goals already make him the MLS Golden Boot frontrunner, and if he stays fit, Miami could emerge as serious contenders.

For fans, Messi’s ability to produce magical moments even while not fully fit is a testament to his enduring greatness.

Highlight

Lionel Messi’s injury return could not have been scripted better. A goal, an assist, and three crucial points for Inter Miami—despite lingering fitness concerns. As the season heads into its decisive stages, all eyes will remain on Messi’s hamstring and his ability to lead Miami’s playoff push.

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