London [UK], October 12: Lionel Messi scored twice on his return to Inter Miami action as they brushed aside DC United 4-0.
The 39-year-old bid international football a fairytale farewell in midweek as he scored on his last appearance for Argentina in Buenos Aires. Luis Suarez scored twice to put Inter Miami 2-0 up at the break, with Messi adding a 13-minute brace in the second half.
Uruguay veteran Suarez opened the scoring in the third minute. Former Tottenham full-back Sergio Reguilon crossed from the left, the ball was flicked on at the near post by German Berterame, and Suarez was unmarked to turn the ball home from six yards out.
The same pair combined for Miami's second six minutes before half-time. Messi's shot was well saved by Sean Johnson but Mexico striker Berterame headed the ball back for Suarez to tap in.
Messi scored his first of the night two minutes after the break as DC United failed to clear their lines and Suarez lofted the ball into the six-yard box to leave the former Barcelona forward with a simple finish.
There was nothing simple about Messi's second as he picked the ball up 30 yards from goal, beat three defenders on a mazy run into the box and prodded the ball into the bottom corner.
The win sees Miami return to second in the MLS Eastern Conference, albeit 11 points adrift of leaders Nashville SC.
Source: Qatar Tribune
