VIDEO: Lionel Messi marks return for Inter Miami with stupendous goal from tight angle outside the box vs Colorado Rapids

A brilliant ball from Franco Negri - who made his first start for the Herons since June 2023 Saturday - found the Argentine on the edge of the box, who drilled him a low curling effort. The strike was his fourth goal in four games this season, but more importantly, put them back in the game.

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The Herons went into the halftime break down a goal after a Rapids penalty put the guests up 1-0. However, the Argentine was subbed on at the midway mark of the match and provided an instant spark on the pitch for Inter Miami. His goal brought them level, and then just two minutes later, Leo Afonso doubled their lead to hand them the advantage, with Messi notching a hockey assist in the process.

However, Afonso's go-ahead goal in the 60th minute was not enough to see them over the line. With just two minutes left in regulation, the Herons conceded on the counter, with Cole Bassett netting an equalizer for the Rapids in the 88th minute.

The Herons will take on CF Monterrey Wednesday in leg two of their CONCACAF Champions Cup tie with the Liga MX club. With Messi netting a goal off the bench Saturday's it's safe to say he will play some sort of role against Rayados midweek.