Lionel Messi will be starting today as he suits up for his third game since recovering from his ankle injury sustained during the Copa America. Inter Miami takes on New York City FC at Yankee Stadium this afternoon.

The legendary player, who has won the Ballon d’Or eight times and is a World Cup champion with Argentina, is now back in fine form after his injury from July 11 during the Copa America final.

Messi has already played two matches, netting two goals and adding an assist last Saturday in his home game against Philadelphia. After a brief appearance in Atlanta where he played under 30 minutes, he seems ready for a full outing in the Bronx.

“The key thing is that his ankle is healing well, and he is gradually getting back to match fitness,” said Inter Miami coach Javier Morales regarding Messi on Friday.

“He’s the type of player who always wants to contribute, and we will utilize him as much as possible, because he not only elevates our performance, but we also love having him play for us.”

Stay tuned for live updates from Messi’s game against New York City FC.

How to Watch NYCFC vs. Inter Miami Live Stream?

The match between Inter Miami and NYCFC kicks off at 2 p.m. ET today and will be available to stream live on MLS Season Pass through Apple TV.

Messi Just Missed a Free Kick in the 5th Minute: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

Close, but no goal.

Messi took a free kick following a handball by NYCFC, and while it looked promising, the ball curved wide to the right of the goal. However, it added excitement to the early moments of the game at Yankee Stadium.

Is Messi Playing Today?

Indeed, Messi is slated to play, as confirmed by Inter Miami assistant coach Javi Morales on Friday. He is included in the starting lineup for Inter Miami.

Is Messi Starting Today? NYCFC vs. Inter Miami Lineup Updates

Messi has been confirmed as a starter in the match against New York City FC.

New York City FC vs. Inter Miami Prediction

Our prediction sees Messi scoring a goal with an assist, while Luis Suarez and Julian Gressel also find the net, leading to a 3-0 victory for Inter Miami over NYCFC. – Safid Deen, Reporter on Lionel Messi

Messi Returns to the New York Area

Today’s game at Yankee Stadium marks Messi’s return to New York, following two Copa America matches he played at MetLife Stadium in late June and July.

Messi assisted in a goal during a 1-0 victory over Chile on June 25, and scored his only Copa America goal in the semifinal against Canada on July 9.

Inter Miami Tops MLS Standings

Inter Miami is currently leading the MLS Supporters’ Shield race with a total of 63 points. A victory in the Supporters’ Shield before the playoffs would mark the club’s second title since Messi joined the team, building on last year’s Leagues Cup win shortly after his arrival.

Beckham Discusses Messi Before NYCFC Match

With over a year into Lionel Messi’s time in Major League Soccer, Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham remains in awe of the addition of the Argentine star.

“From my experience and that of my family, Messi was focused on finding a place where he and his family could thrive and enjoy life, which was extremely important to him,” Beckham shared during the Stella Artois’ “Let’s Do Dinner” event in New York on Thursday.