PSG’s Lionel Messi Scores in Comeback Match After World Cup Win

Lionel Messi marked his return to Paris Saint-Germain with a goal in his first appearance since lifting the World Cup.

After rejoining training in the new year following a break to celebrate and recover from Qatar 2022, the 35-year-old showed no signs of rust, scoring from close range in PSG’s 2-0 victory against Angers on Wednesday.

Ahead of the game, Messi and his teammates honored Pelé by sporting t-shirts bearing the Brazilian legend’s likeness during warm-ups.

Despite the absence of Kylian Mbappé, rested after his World Cup campaign, PSG managed to secure the win. Youngster Hugo Ekitiké, who has impressed this season, opened the scoring with a precise finish in the first half.

Messi, combining effectively with Neymar Jr., extended the lead in the 72nd minute with a well-timed run and a clinical right-footed strike. Initially flagged offside by the linesman, VAR finally confirmed the goal, much to the delight of the home fans.

The victory provides a welcome lift for PSG, who recently suffered their first league defeat of the season, a 3-1 loss to Lens. Coach Christophe Galtier stressed the importance of bouncing back and the challenge of reintegrating players post-World Cup.

“It was crucial to return to winning ways. Our competitors are putting up a strong fight,” Galtier emphasized to PSGTV. “The repercussion of the World Cup has left us with many absent players, scattering the squad. Gradually, we are regrouping and rediscovering our rhythm.”

With a six-point lead at the top of the table, PSG now looks ahead to their upcoming clash against Rennes on Sunday, aiming to maintain their commanding position in the league standings.