Arguably one of the greatest footballers of all time, Lionel Messi made a remarkable comeback in his return to action for Inter Miami in a 2-2 tie with the Colorado Rapids. Coming off the substitutes’ bench, Messi wasted no time in making his mark by scoring just 12 minutes after halftime. His first-time deflected shot that hit the post to bring Miami level at 1-1 showcased his undeniable skill and precision in front of the goal.
Following his goal, Messi continued to exhibit his brilliance by playing a crucial role in Leo Alfonso’s goal, putting Miami ahead at 2-1. His presence on the field not only inspired his teammates but also put pressure on the opposition with his exceptional playmaking abilities. Despite his significant impact on the game, Miami failed to secure the victory as Colorado managed to equalize in the 88th minute.
Miami boss Gerardo “Tata” Martino recognized the positive influence Messi had on the team, stating that Messi’s presence not only affected their performance but also had an impact on the rival team and the fans. However, Martino expressed disappointment in letting go of two points due to errors made by the team. He emphasized the importance of Messi feeling comfortable and playing freely, highlighting the need for improvement in order to avoid losing valuable points in future games.
Messi’s Return from Injury
Having been out injured since March 13, Messi’s return to action was met with anticipation and excitement. Despite training regularly with the squad leading up to the game, his participation remained uncertain until the last moment. Messi’s injury during the Concacaf Champions Cup win against Nashville SC had sidelined him for several games, forcing him to miss crucial fixtures against top opponents.
Martino’s Plan for Messi’s Recovery
Martino revealed that Messi’s gradual return to full fitness was part of a planned strategy to ensure his successful recovery. The risk of playing Messi in the previous match against Monterrey was carefully assessed, leading to the decision to give him minutes in the game against Colorado Rapids. Martino emphasized the importance of Messi’s involvement in building confidence for the upcoming second leg against Monterrey.
Despite his impressive performance on the field, Messi found himself embroiled in controversy after the game when he allegedly approached the Monterrey locker room in agitation. The exact reason for his actions remained unclear, leading to a complaint being filed by the Liga MX side to Concacaf. Martino downplayed the incident, focusing on the upcoming game and the team’s preparation for the challenging fixture against Monterrey.
Messi’s return to action for Inter Miami showcased his undeniable talent and impact on the team. His performance against Colorado Rapids highlighted his ability to change the course of a game with his exceptional skills and experience. As Messi continues his recovery from injury, his presence on the field brings hope and optimism to Inter Miami fans, who eagerly await his further contributions to the team’s success.
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