Overview

• Messi returned from a hamstring strain on August 17, playing a 45-minute substitute appearance and scoring in the 84th minute to restore Miami’s lead.
• His no-look, right-footed backheel to Luis Suárez set up Miami’s third goal and has gone viral on official MLS platforms.
• Coach Javier Mascherano said Messi was not fully fit and deliberately limited his minutes to preserve his fitness.
• The performance restored momentum for Inter Miami following recent setbacks, with a Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Tigres UANL looming.
• Coverage noted Messi’s reported 875th career goal, underscoring his continued record-setting impact in professional soccer.