Lionel Messi produced a masterclass on his return to Inter Miami’s starting line-up following the World Cup, scoring twice and providing an assist in a 4–2 victory over Mexican outfit Atlético San Luis in the Leagues Cup.
The Argentine talisman had previously featured as a substitute in Major League Soccer (MLS) against Columbus Crew last Sunday, a fixture that ended in a 2–2 draw without Messi finding the net.
However, his performance in Miami propelled him to become the all-time top scorer in Leagues Cup history. Since the tournament was revamped into its current format in 2023, Messi has scored 14 goals in just 12 appearances, surpassing the previous record held by Los Angeles FC’s Denis Bouanga. The double marked the fifth time Messi has scored two goals in a single Leagues Cup match.
The encounter in Florida began ominously for the hosts when San Luis took an early lead in the fourth minute through David Rodríguez. Inter Miami responded swiftly, with Messi equalising in the 11th minute courtesy of a sublime volley from an Allen cross—his first goal for the club following the 2026 World Cup.
Inter Miami turned the tide in the 26th minute as Telasco Segovia put the home side ahead. Messi then extended the lead in the 44th minute, collecting the ball inside the penalty area and finishing clinically to make it 3–1. Deep into first-half injury time, Messi turned provider, delivering a precise corner that Mikael headed home in the 52nd minute to give Miami a commanding 4–1 cushion before the interval.
San Luis managed to pull a goal back in the 51st minute through Rafael Lorente, reducing the deficit to 4–2. Heavy torrential rain over Florida then interrupted play midway through the second half, forcing a weather delay of more than 30 minutes. Although San Luis mounted late attacking spells after play resumed, Miami held firm to secure the victory.
The win gives Inter Miami an ideal start to their Leagues Cup campaign. The Herons will turn their attention to their next fixture on 9 August, when they face another Mexican side, Monterrey.
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