Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi Returns, but Penalty Heartbreak Ends Grueling World Tour

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Following their grueling world tour, Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates are heading home after a tough loss to the Japanese league champion, Vissel Kobe. The match ended in a 0-0 tie, with Vissel Kobe prevailing 4-3 in penalties in Tokyo on Wednesday. Messi, who had sat out the previous game in Hong Kong and only played seven minutes in the second game in Saudi Arabia due to a hip injury, made a 30-minute appearance on Wednesday and appeared to be in good form. Although the team made several dangerous approaches after he entered the game, they were unable to convert.

Inter Miami coach Tata Martino revealed, “After training on Tuesday, Leo said he felt good, and we decided he would play for 30 minutes. He was very happy after the match because he felt comfortable out there.”

Forward Luis Suarez, who missed the Hong Kong match due to knee inflammation, returned to the starting lineup. However, Inter Miami is returning home with another injury concern as Sergio Busquets went down early in Wednesday’s game after sustaining a hard hit to his right ankle. He left the field gingerly and did not return.

The match seemed to be over after a goalless regulation period, with players exchanging pleasantries and preparing to swap jerseys. However, it was then announced that there would be a penalty shootout. Messi chose not to take a penalty kick, while Leo Campana, Julian Gressel, and Jordi Alba converted their attempts for Miami. Unfortunately, Robert Taylor’s shot hit the crossbar, and Vissel Kobe goalkeeper Shota Arai saved attempts by Noah Allen and Gregore.

Martino summarized, “I thought it was an even match. They played better in the first half and had chances to score, but we improved as the game went on in the second half.”