In his first game back after winning the World Cup, Lionel Messi scored to mark his return to Paris Saint-Germain.
The 35-year-old only returned to training in the new year after taking some time off to celebrate and recover after winning the trophy that had always eluded him in one of the best finals ever in Qatar 2022.
The attacker returned to action on Wednesday and scored a close-range goal in PSG’s 2-0 victory against Angers, showing no signs of having a hangover.
Prior to the game, Messi also paid tribute to Pelé by joining his teammates in donning a t-shirt with the Brazilian’s image while warming up.
PSG sits comfortably top of the league despite Christophe Galtier having to switch up his team as he eases players back in after the World Cup.
Kylian Mbappé, a beaten finalist in Qatar, was unavailable for Wednesday’s match, allowing the likes of youngster Hugo Ekitiké to get some game time.
The 20-year-old forward has impressed when given the chance this season and opened the scoring with a sweeping finish in the first half.
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Messi, who dovetailed the attack alongside Neymar Jr., then doubled the lead in the 72nd minute after a well timed run and right foot finish.
The linesman had initially flagged for offside, but the Virtual Assistant Referee (VAR) overruled the call and the goal was given.
Messi’s goal from this angle is spectacular pic.twitter.com/5HfXXmfZM5
— MC (@CrewsMat10) January 11, 2023
The win on Messi’s return is some welcome good news for PSG, who lost in the league for the first time this season last week, 3-1 away to Lens.
PSG, who are six points clear atop the table, play Rennes in its next game on Sunday.
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