Inter Miami star Lionel Messi was still carrying the effects of his hamstring injury in a man-of-the-match performance in a 3-1 win over the Los Angeles Galaxy on Saturday night.

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after scoring a goal against Los Angeles Galaxy in the second half of their MLS match at Chase Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Photo by Matias J. Ocner [email protected]

Lionel Messi is expected to return to the field Saturday for Inter Miami after a two-game injury absence, Herons coach Javier Mascherano told reporters Friday.