“Cope Without the GOAT” – As Injury Concern Forces Lionel Messi to Leave Game Midway, Inter Miami Torch Toronto FC 4–0, Leaving Soccer Fans in Hysterics

Moments ago, Inter Miami played their MLS fixture against Toronto. This time, the Herons had their star player, Lionel Messi, back in action after he missed the last game against Atlanta United. As the Argentinian superstar returned to the starting XI, all recharged, he somehow left the field in just half an hour. But his absence didn’t let Inter Miami get distracted from sealing a 4-0 win in today’s match, which left fans in hysterics.

Not only Lionel Messi but also Inter Miami’s new left-back signing, Jordi Alba, was substituted a few minutes before the captain. This is definitely not good news for the Florida-based club.

Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba leave the pitch early amid injury concerns

Lionel Messi missed the last match for Inter Miami against Atlanta United due to fatigue. Tata Martino also rested Jordi Alba alongside the 36-year-old, allowing both to recharge their energy levels. After getting ample rest, both returned to today’s game. However, despite taking precautions, both are showing signs of injury.

Within the first half, both Messi and Alba were taken off the pitch. First, Jordi Alba was subbed off by Tata Martino in the 34th minute. The Spanish left-back was replaced by Noah Allen. Subsequently, just three minutes later, the worst happened, as Lionel Messi was also subbed off and was replaced by Robert Taylor.

This is indeed a significant setback for Inter Miami. David Beckham‘s soccer franchise is already striving for a playoff spot. However, the early departures of both star players may jeopardize their playoff aspirations. Additionally, Miami is in contention to play in the US Open Cup final against the Houston Dynamo. Certainly, the absence of either star could have implications for their chances in that competition as well.

However, fans likely weren’t pleased to see Messi and Alba leave the DRV PNK Stadium pitch prematurely. Nevertheless, the outcome displayed on the scoreboard would have undoubtedly brought them joy. In fact, it has elicited various reactions from the fans.

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Fans react to Inter Miami’s victory without Messi and Alba

No Messi, no problem. Even in the absence of No. 10 and Alba, Miami secured an enthralling victory. Notably, Martino’s side displayed positive signs within a few minutes after both stars departed, ending the first half with a narrow lead. As the second half commenced, Robert Taylor joined the first-goal scorer Facundo Farias on the scoresheet. Interestingly, Messi’s replacement scored in the 54th minute and was assisted by Alba’s replacement, Allen.

In the 73rd minute, Benjamin Cremaschi added a third goal to Miami’s tally, thanks to an assist from Taylor. Possibly, Messi had passed on his powers to Taylor for the day, as the forward scored a fourth goal for Miami. The Finnish star completed a brace with an assist from goalscorer Farias. The final whistle blew, sealing a perfect victory for Miami. Their win has prompted various reactions from the fans.

Miami’s fanbase was relieved to see their side cope without Messi.

Fans couldn’t stop praising the star of the match, Robert Taylor.

Playoffs seem easy now, don’t they Miami fans?

Inter Miami fans are brimming with confidence.

A funny comparison!

A great victory, but the fans are worried about the GOAT and his teammate.

Indeed, it was a good day for Inter Miami. However, they would be displeased with Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba being forced to return to the bench early. Let’s hope it doesn’t turn out to be too bad for the Herons.

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