Aug 16, 2025; Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA; Inter Miami CF forward Luis Suarez (9) celebrates with forward Lionel Messi (10) after scoring a goal against Los Angeles Galaxy during the second half at Chase Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

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Lionel Messi Nets Stunning Goal After Injury Return, Leads Inter Miami to 3–1 Win Over LA Galaxy

Lionel Messi made a triumphant return for Inter Miami after missing the team’s two games with a hamstring injury and he did it in his trademark style. Coming off the bench at halftime, Messi changed the game’s tempo and played a decisive role in Miami’s 3-1 win over LA Galaxy. Jordi Alba had earlier given Miami the lead, only for Joseph Paintsil’s fine finish to level the score for the Galaxy. But Messi’s introduction ensured that the spotlight remained firmly on him.

MIAMI WINS 💗🖤 pic.twitter.com/IahXSDazDj
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) August 17, 2025

In the 84th minute of the match, Messi picked up a pass from compatriot Rodrigo De Paul, shrugged off two defenders and unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box, leaving goalkeeper Novak Micovic with no chance. It was his 19th goal of the season, keeping him top of the MLS scoring charts. Just minutes later, he capped off his comeback with a sublime back-heel assist to Luis Suarez, who sealed the victory in the 89th minute.

Messi Wants To Play Every Single Game: Mascherano

Lionel Messi suffered a hamstring injury on August 2 during Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup clash against Necaxa. The injury forced Messi to miss two key matches. While the team advanced to the Leagues Cup quarterfinals in his absence, they struggled in MLS play, falling 4-1 to rivals Orlando City.

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For coach Javier Mascherano, giving Messi minutes against LA Galaxy was part of a plan to restore his sharpness and the Argentine delivered in spectacular fashion. Reflecting on Messi’s mentality, Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano highlighted the forward’s relentless drive. Mascherano said after the victory over the LA Galaxy,

“He wants to play every single game. He wanted to play in Orlando also. You have to understand why Leo is Leo, because he always wants to be on the pitch,”

Despite playing three fewer matches due to their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup and Leagues Cup, Miami now sit fourth in the Eastern Conference, only seven points behind leaders FC Cincinnati. Messi’s display was not only a reminder of his quality but also a vital confidence boost for Miami, who face Tigres UANL in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals next.

Inter Miami

LA Galaxy

Lionel Messi

MLS

MLS 2025

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.