Lionel Messi made a triumphant return from injury, gracing the field as Inter Miami clashed with Colorado in a thrilling Major League Soccer (MLS) encounter that culminated in a 2-2 draw at their home turf.
Having been sidelined due to a hamstring strain since March 13, Messi made a dramatic entrance, entering the game as a substitute at halftime at the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. According to reports from Xinhua, his impact was immediate and electrifying.
The visitors managed to take the lead just before halftime, with Rafael Navarro confidently converting a penalty kick. However, Messi swiftly changed the narrative, equalizing the score twelve minutes into the second half. His lightning-fast strike ricocheted into the net off the post after a precise delivery from Franco Negri.
Not content with just leveling the score, the Argentine maestro then orchestrated a brilliant move that led to Inter Miami taking the lead. A deftly executed pass found its way to David Ruiz, who set up Leonardo Afonso for a clinical finish from close range.
Despite Inter Miami's surge, their momentum faltered in the dying minutes of the game, allowing Colorado to snatch an equalizer through Cole Bassett's composed finish on the counterattack, just two minutes from full time.
Reflecting on Messi's impact, Inter Miami manager Gerardo Martino acknowledged the magic the football icon brings to the team, the opponents, and the fans alike. Martino expressed satisfaction with Messi's comfort and freedom from injury but lamented the missed opportunity to secure all three points. He emphasized the team's costly errors that have hindered their progress.
Messi's goal marked his fifth in as many games across all competitions for Inter Miami this season, showcasing his enduring brilliance on the field.
With this draw, Inter Miami occupies the third position in the Eastern Conference standings, accumulating 12 points from eight matches. Meanwhile, Colorado sits in ninth place in the Western Conference, having garnered nine points thus far in the season.
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