Messi sets up Miami goal in first game since Argentina retirement

Lionel Messi returned to club action after retiring from international duty, assisting Inter Miami's opening goal in a 2-2 draw with Atlanta United in Florida on Saturday.

Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and started for Miami in a match delayed by more than 90 minutes because of heavy rain and lightning. In the 32nd minute, he delivered a corner that midfielder Casemiro headed past Atlanta goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos.

Atlanta equalized three minutes later when Casemiro slid to block a cross, sending the ball off Miami goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair and into the path of Miguel Almiron, who finished the chance. Luis Suarez restored Miami's lead just before halftime, but Breel Embolo converted a penalty in the 87th minute to secure a point for Atlanta.

Messi had scored four goals and provided another assist in Miami's 7-1 win over CF Montreal the previous weekend. He is now level at the top of the MLS scoring standings with 18 goals this season. The article also noted that Messi had previously questioned whether to continue playing after the death of his father, Jorge, on Aug. 8.