Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Eliminated From Playoff Contention in Return From Injury

Lionel Messi's return wasn't enough for Inter Miami, as the club was officially eliminated from MLS Cup playoff contention after a 1-0 loss to FC Cincinnati on Saturday.

It was Messi's first game back from injury since Sept. 20 against Toronto FC, when he had to leave the game after re-aggravating a scar tissue injury in his leg.

Messi's tenure in Miami started promising when he debuted for the club on July 21, as he scored nine goals in his first six games and led the team to the U.S. Open Cup final.

But now the team will finish the season without any hope of making the playoffs, and will play its final two games against Charlotte on Oct. 18 and 21.