Lionel Messi returned to action on Saturday following Argentina’s World Cup final defeat by Spain, coming on as a substitute for Inter Miami in a 2-2 draw with Columbus Crew as team-mate Casemiro scored an own goal. The 39-year-old had not played competitively since captaining his country in their 1-0 loss on 19 July.
Messi Back in Action After World Cup Defeat
Lionel Messi returned to the pitch on Saturday, marking his first competitive match since captaining Argentina in their World Cup final defeat. The 39-year-old was given a huge ovation by the Inter Miami home fans when he came on in the 53rd minute as his side led the Major League Soccer match 2-1.
Messi had a couple of chances for a winner in added time but put a looping header narrowly wide before sending a right-foot shot over the bar. The forward was given opportunities to score but couldn't find the net, despite his best efforts.
Casemiro's Costly Error Hands Inter Miami a Draw
Brazil midfielder Casemiro, who joined Miami in July after leaving Manchester United, inadvertently equalised for Columbus when he put the ball into his own net as he stretched to block a cross. The own goal was a costly mistake for Inter Miami, as it allowed Columbus Crew to draw level.
Miami had taken the lead through Luis Suarez’s audacious long-range chipped strike for his seventh goal in four games. But Casemiro's error meant that Inter Miami's lead was short-lived.
Messi's Return to Form
Messi had a chance to score but, from an acute angle, fired a left-foot shot into the side-netting. He also had another opportunity but, after chesting down a Luis Suarez ball, he shot just wide. Despite his best efforts, Messi couldn't find the net.
The forward's return to action marked a significant moment for Inter Miami, as they look to build momentum in the Major League Soccer season. With Messi back on the pitch, fans will be eagerly awaiting his next opportunity to score.
What's Next for Inter Miami
With the draw, Inter Miami will be looking to bounce back in their next match. The team will be hoping to learn from their mistakes and build on their lead before Casemiro's own goal. With Messi back in action, Inter Miami will be looking to make the most of their star player's return to form.
In the meantime, fans will be eagerly awaiting Messi's next opportunity to score. Will he be able to find the net and lead Inter Miami to victory? Only time will tell.
Source: Joy Online
