Video: Lionel Messi returns to goal with stunning free-kick for Inter Miami vs. Philadelphia Union in MLS
Inter Miami were set to visit Philadelphia Union to finally jump back after a disastrous series of results in the MLS in the month of May. With the game 3-1, star Lionel Messi returned to goal and shortened the distance with an astonishing free kick.
The Herons fell behind early when Quinn Sullivan opened the scoring for Philadelphia in the 7th minute. Tai Baribo doubled the lead just before halftime in the 44th. Inter Miami responded after the break, with Tadeo Allende heading home in the 60th minute to make it 2–1. But Baribo struck again just minutes later to restore the Union’s two-goal cushion at 3–1.
In the 86th minute, Messi was taken down by Jakob Glesness just outside the box, setting a perfect free kick for the star. With one defender covering the far post, Messi struck a powerful shot toward the goalkeeper’s side, beating Andrew Rick to cut the deficit to 3–2.
Then, in the 94th minute, Messi helped orchestrate the tying goal. He initiated an attack down the left flank and fed Telasco Segovia, who unleashed a brilliant strike to the top corner to complete the comeback and earn a clutch 3–3 draw for Inter Miami against the Eastern Conference leaders.
Lionel Messi ends scoring drought
Before Saturday’s free-kick, Messi had gone several matches without finding the back of the net or creating decisive moments. His last goal came on May 10 in a 4–1 loss to Minnesota United.
The Argentine star struggled to make an impact in subsequent matches, including a 3–3 draw with the San Jose Earthquakes and a 3–0 loss to Orlando City. With his latest effort, Messi now has 11 goals in 18 appearances during the 2025 season.
Inter Miami’s defensive issues mounting
Inter Miami began the 2025 MLS season with one of the league’s longest unbeaten streaks, with their first loss coming on April 27 in a 4–3 thriller against FC Dallas. Since then, however, defensive lapses have become a glaring issue.
Over the past seven matches (including MLS and CONCACAF Champions Cup), the Herons have conceded 21 goals—raising their season total to 24, one of the highest in the league. Only LA Galaxy (35), D.C. United (27), and CF Montréal (25) have allowed more. Head coach Javier Mascherano will need to shore up the back line quickly if Miami hopes to stay in the playoff picture.