Messi’s Triumphant Return: A 2-2 Draw and the Magic of Inter Miami

Lionel Messi made a triumphant return for Inter Miami after being sidelined since March 13.

In a 2-2 draw against the Colorado Rapids, Messi wasted no time making his presence felt.

Just 13 minutes after stepping onto the pitch, he floated into a pocket of space and latched onto a pass from Franco Negri, scoring an equalizing goal.

MESSIIIII

You just knew he was going to score on his return. 🐐 pic.twitter.com/2MZnD2TTTV

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) April 7, 2024

His fourth goal in as many MLS matches this season came in the 58th minute, as he beat Colorado keeper Zach Steffen with a low shot that hit the left goalpost and then skidded back across the goalmouth before settling into the net just inside the right post.

However, despite Messi’s heroics, Inter Miami had to settle for just one point instead of three.

Cole Bassett scored in the 88th minute for the Colorado Rapids, knotting things up late in regulation.

Rafael Navarro had earlier scored the first goal for Colorado, converting a penalty kick late in the first half.