Sun Oct 12 00:50:00 UTC 2025: ## News Article: Messi Miraculously Makes Miami Match, Delivers Assist Masterclass
**FORT LAUDERDALE, FL -** Lionel Messi, defying expectations and briefly departing international duty, started for Inter Miami CF Saturday night against Atlanta United FC, just hours after being left out of Argentina’s friendly win against Venezuela. In an earlier match against the New England Revolution, Messi notched all the assists on Inter Miami’s first three goals in its victory.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni opted to rest Messi in the Friday night match, citing a desire to evaluate other attacking options. Despite Scaloni’s earlier decision, and Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano expressing uncertainty about Messi’s availability, the superstar ultimately joined his club for their crucial MLS fixture.
The surprise appearance provides a boost to Inter Miami as they fight for a higher seed and home-field advantage in the 2025 MLS playoffs. The team currently sits in third place in the Eastern Conference.
Scaloni remains hopeful Messi will feature in Argentina’s friendly against Puerto Rico on October 14th, which will also be held at Chase Stadium. The match was recently moved from Chicago.
Beyond team success, Messi is also locked in a tight race for the MLS Golden Boot, currently tied with LAFC’s Denis Bouanga at 24 goals. With only two games remaining, every match becomes critical in the chase for the individual accolade. Bouanga and LAFC play away against Austin FC on Sunday.
First Piper 