Messi scores twice, leads Inter Miami over San Luis 4-2 in Leagues Cup debut

Lionel Messi marked his return to the starting lineup with a dominant performance, scoring two goals and providing an assist to guide Inter Miami to a 4-2 win against Atlético San Luis. The Leagues Cup match, held Wednesday, saw the Argentine superstar feature from the beginning for the first time since the 2026 World Cup final.

Despite conceding an early goal in the fifth minute, Inter Miami quickly responded. Messi equalized in the tenth minute with a well-placed shot inside the box. He then extended Miami's lead with a beautifully orchestrated play involving Yannick Bright and Noah Allen, before his corner kick set up Micael for the fourth goal. Telasco Segovia also contributed a goal, assisted by Allen, who delivered an impressive three assists in the match.

The victory gives Inter Miami their first three points in the tournament, which pits Major League Soccer teams against Liga MX clubs. The game experienced a temporary suspension due to a storm alert in the second half, which provided a breather for Inter Miami as they were being outplayed. The team will face Monterrey and Leon in their remaining group stage matches.

This competition holds significance for Inter Miami, as they lifted the Leagues Cup trophy in 2023, their first-ever title, shortly after Messi's arrival. Last year, they reached the final but lost 3-0 to Seattle Sounders. Atlético San Luis will play Nashville and Orlando City in their upcoming fixtures.