Lionel Messi returned to the pitch in the MLS match between Inter Miami and Columbus Crew, which ended in an exciting 2-2 draw.
Messi was a substitute for Inter Miami and entered the game in the 63rd minute, when his team was leading 2-1 thanks to a stunning goal from Uruguayan Luis Suárez and a goal from Noah Allen.
Rodrigo De Paul returned to Guillermo Hoyos’ starting lineup, and Inter Miami took the lead in the 16th minute with a shot from Suárez from 40 meters that surprised the Crew goalkeeper, who had come out of his area.
An own goal by Casemiro gave the Crew the equalizer in the 34th minute, but just before halftime, Noah Allen made it 2-1 with a perfect header after a cross from Suárez.
Messi’s return drew a standing ovation from the NU Stadium in Miami, but Inter Miami couldn’t seal the victory. And they paid the price.
Because in the 85th minute, Brais Méndez whipped in a cross from 35 meters that nestled into the back of the net, beyond the reach of any player.
The Crew’s new signing thus secured a valuable point for his team, which is fighting to move closer to the MLS playoff zone.
Inter Miami sits second in the Eastern Conference with 38 points.
