Lionel Messi admits that he "missed nights like this" during his injury break, as he marked his return with a brace against the Philadelphia Union.

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Miami beat Union 3-1 on Messi's returnArgentine bagged a brace and an assistOut of action for two months due to injuryWHAT HAPPENED?

Messi made a triumphant return to the pitch, scoring twice in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory against Union in Major League Soccer (MLS). He had remained sidelined for eight games following a severe ankle injury sustained during Argentina’s Copa America final win over Colombia in July and on his return the forward reminded everyone why he remains one of the most revered players in the game.

Get the MLS Season Pass today!Stream games nowAdvertisementWHAT MESSI SAID

Following the match, Messi shared his emotions about being back on the field, expressing how much he missed playing in front of fans.

“I miss nights like this,” Messi wrote on Instagram along with a carousel of pictures from the match.

“We keep adding together to achieve our goals.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Inter Miami’s victory over the Philadelphia Union further solidified their place in the MLS playoffs. With a seven-point cushion over the LA Galaxy, the team is poised to finish the season on a high note. With Messi once again available for selection, they are also on track to set a single-season points record of 62, an achievement that would cap off an impressive campaign for the club under the guidance of head coach Tata Martino.

(C)Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR MESSI?

Messi will be back in action when Inter Miami will face Atlanta United on Wednesday, September 18. With the team already locked in for the playoffs, Messi’s presence could be the key to securing the ultimate prize — the MLS Cup.