Messi Exits Early as Inter Miami Defeats Philadelphia in Wild 6-4 Shootout

Inter Miami closed out the first half of its MLS season with an entertaining 6-4 victory over the Philadelphia Union on Sunday night, but concerns quickly shifted to Lionel Messi after the Argentine superstar exited the match in the second half. Messi, who contributed two assists during another influential performance, was substituted in the 73rd minute after appearing to experience discomfort in his left hamstring. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner slowed noticeably moments earlier and was seen reaching toward the back of his leg before signaling for a change. After being replaced by Mateo Silvetti, Messi headed directly to the locker room without stopping at the bench. While he walked under his own power, the early departure raises questions about his availability ahead of Argentina's upcoming FIFA World Cup campaign. The match itself was one of the most chaotic and entertaining contests of the MLS season. Philadelphia stunned the home crowd by jumping out to a 2-0 lead within the opening 10 minutes, but Miami responded with an offensive explosion led by Germán Berterame, who scored twice in the first half. Philadelphia's Milan Iloski kept the visitors in the game with a first-half hat trick, including two penalty kicks, while Bruno Damiani also found the net. By halftime, the teams had combined for eight goals in a 4-4 deadlock, setting a new MLS record for goals scored in a first half.

Heavy rain arrived after the break, creating difficult playing conditions, but Inter Miami regained control. Luis Suárez completed his hat trick with the decisive goal late in the match before Rodrigo De Paul capped the scoring in stoppage time on his birthday. The victory sends Inter Miami into the World Cup break with a 9-2-4 record and 31 points, placing the defending MLS champions second in the Eastern Conference standings, just two points behind Nashville. While the win was important, all eyes will now be on Messi's health. Argentina opens its World Cup campaign on June 16, and the national team will be anxiously awaiting updates on the captain's condition as it prepares to defend its world title.