Messi's Magic Moments: Scores on Comeback and Wins Fans' Hearts
8:28 PM EDT, April 7, 2024
Lionel Messi triumphantly returned to the field after a three-week hiatus due to an injury. His comeback was so thrilling for an Inter Miami fan that she dashed towards him during the match to snap a picture.
Lionel Messi last graced an Inter Miami game on March 13. In a match against Nashville SC, he was forced off the field due to a muscle issue, as disclosed by the team's coach, Gerardo Martino. This problem sidelined one of soccer's greatest talents, prompting a longer-than-anticipated break from play.
The length of Messi's absence was unexpected. Without him, Inter Miami's performance was lackluster. Over four games, they garnered just four points and endured a humiliating 0:4 loss to the New York Red Bulls.
Concern grew amongst the fans. The coaching staff's inability to pinpoint when Messi could return increased anxiety. Eventually, his comeback materialized on April 6 during a match against the Colorado Rapids, three weeks after his injury.
He came in and instantly made an impact
Beginning on the substitutes' bench at age 36, Messi was soon called into action in the second half. It took him merely 12 minutes to prove his worth by scoring, securing a draw (2:2) for his team.
The game's climax saw a brief pause. A fan, evidently missing Messi's presence on the pitch, breached security to get a photo with him. The warmth of their reunion was palpable; Messi embraced her and posed for the picture.
Messi's response was one of calm assurance. He hugged the fan and consented to the picture. Security swiftly handled the situation, escorting the woman off the field and allowing the match to proceed.
Following the draw, Inter Miami now ranks third in the Major League Soccer standings, trailing the leading New York Red Bulls by two points.
