MLS roundup: Lionel Messi returns but can’t rescue Inter Miami as Robert Lewandowski scores twice on Chicago Fire home debut
Lionel Messi made an underwhelming return to the pitch for Inter Miami, failing to secure a win against the Columbus Crew. Meanwhile, other MLS teams like LAFC and Vancouver continue to compete for top spots in the Western Conference.
Why it matters
Messi's performance remains a major draw for global soccer interest, and his inability to impact the game highlights ongoing defensive vulnerabilities in the Inter Miami squad.
Messi 's return proved a bit underwhelming, but Lewandowski announced his home arrival in Chicago with a bang
Lionel Messi's return commanded the spotlight, but Saturday's most consequential MLS matchup took place out West.
Inter Miami kept their cards close to their chest over Messi's availability. After returning to training midweek, he was named among the substitutes Saturday. When he entered in the 52nd minute with Miami leading 2-1, the stage appeared set for a familiar flourish. The reality was rather different.
Elsewhere, in perhaps the more decisive matchup, the most complete teams in the West, LAFC and Vancouver, showed why they are level on points. And then, there was a reminder from Chicago that getting rid of Hugo Cuypers might not have been the worst decision, after all. GOAL takes a look at some of the biggest storylines from MLS's Saturday night slate...
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