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Lionel Messi returned to the pitch for Inter Miami just four days after an emotional farewell to his international career with Argentina. He wasted no time making an impact, scoring twice in a 4-0 home win against D.C. United on Saturday.
Luis Suarez scored two goals in the first half before Messi added his first of the night at Nu Stadium in the 47th minute. Suarez provided the assist for a simple close range finish.
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Messi followed up with a trademark individual effort, using quick feet and a sharp cut back before sending the ball into the bottom corner of the net. The double took his league leading goals tally to 23 for the season.
He also leads the league in assists with 13. His performance on Saturday means he has now registered a goal contribution in 10 consecutive MLS games for the first time.
Playoff push
The victory lifted Miami to second place in the Eastern Conference. The result strengthens the team hopes of claiming a top four seed and homefield advantage in the playoffs, which start next month.
Messi ended his Argentina career on Tuesday in Buenos Aires with his 126th and final goal in a friendly win over Benin. He has a contract with Miami through 2028. Miami head coach Cristian Kily Gonzalez said this week that Messi will be missed in the Argentina shirt, but they are happy to enjoy having him in Miami.
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