Lionel Messi returns! Legendary Argentine comes off bench for Inter Miami in clash with FC Cincinnati

• Messi returns to bench
• Previously missed four-straight matches
• Inter Miami fall 1-0

WHAT HAPPENED? Tata Martino named Messi to the bench against FC Cincinnati Saturday evening as the Herons host the 2023 MLS Supporters' Shield winners in an Eastern Conference clash.

Former Spain international and Barcelona teammate of Messi, Jordi Alba, did not make the teamsheet as he is still dealing with a lingering injury.

Messi came into the match in the second half, but couldn't lift Miami to a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Inter Miami were in must-win territory if they wanted to keep their postseason dreams alive. Mathematically, they would not have been eliminated with a loss instantly, but results around the league ensured that their postseason hopes were done on Saturday night.

IN A PHOTO:

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WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI? The forward was called up as part of Argentina's squad ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Paraguay and Peru. Inter Miami, meanwhile, face two final matches against Charlotte FC to end their season.