Lionel Messi made his first start for Inter Miami CF after returning from the FIFA World Cup, quickly making an impact by scoring two impressive goals in a thrilling 4-2 comeback victory over Atlético de San Luis in their opening game of the 2026 Leagues Cup.
The match kicked off at Nu Stadium in Miami on Wednesday, where San Luis struck first with a glancing header from David Rodriguez that found the net just four minutes in, but Miami responded swiftly.
Messi leveled the score with a stunning volley, redirecting a cross from Noah Allen while in full stride, marking his second game back after a brief period off following Argentina’s run to the World Cup final.
During Messi’s absence, Luis Suárez played a crucial role in stabilizing the team as it returned to MLS play, but he was sidelined for the match against San Luis due to the beginning of a six-match suspension for spitting on a Seattle Sounders FC staff member following the 2025 Leagues Cup final.
This suspension will keep Suárez out of this year’s tournament, despite his impressive record of seven goals in his last four matches.
Allen assisted on Miami’s second goal midway through the first half, receiving a well-placed through ball before assisting Telasco Segovia, who powered a shot into the back of the net. Messi, alongside his two goals, also contributed an assist on this goal.
Miami’s third goal came shortly after, featuring a well-coordinated buildup with Allen providing a pass that enabled Messi to weave through defenders and score from close range, marking his second goal of the night.
With this goal, Messi became the all-time leading scorer in Leagues Cup history with 14 goals, surpassing LAFC‘s Denis Bouanga since the competition was expanded in 2023. This effort also marked Messi’s fifth multi-goal game in just 12 career Leagues Cup appearances.
Allen achieved a career milestone by recording three assists in a single game.
Hope for a San Luis comeback was extinguished when Micael headed home off a corner kick, extending Miami’s lead to 4-1 by halftime.
The second half was interrupted by a weather delay due to heavy rain, and although San Luis managed to reduce the deficit with a strike from Rafa Llorente, they could not claw their way back into the match despite several opportunities as the contest progressed.
Miami substitute Mateo Silvetti exited the game in the 83rd minute with an arm injury.
Before leaving for the World Cup at the end of May, where Argentina fell to Spain in the finals, Messi had previously led Miami to four consecutive victories, helping solidify their position at the top of the MLS Eastern Conference.
Messi also guided Miami to the Leagues Cup title in 2023 shortly after joining the team.
Miami’s next Leagues Cup fixture is scheduled for Saturday against Monterrey, while San Luis will face Nashville SC on Sunday.
This report includes information from The Associated Press.