Lionel Messi scored his first goals since the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leading Inter Miami to a 4-2 victory over Atletico San Luis in the Leagues Cup.
Inter Miami came from behind to secure the win after the Mexican side took an early lead in the fourth minute through David Rodriguez.
Messi equalized in the 11th minute before adding his second goal of the match in the 44th minute. Telasco Segovia and defender Micael also found the net for the home side, while Noah Allen provided three assists.
The match at Nu Stadium was suspended for 30 minutes during the second half due to severe storms in the area. Rafa Llorente also scored for San Luis, but it was not enough to stop Miami, who extended their unbeaten run to eight matches.
Messi returned to Inter Miami’s starting lineup for his second appearance since the World Cup, where he led Argentina to its second consecutive final. In that match, La Albiceleste was defeated 1-0 by Spain. In his previous appearance against the Columbus Crew, a 2-2 draw, the 39-year-old Argentine came off the bench to play 37 minutes and did not get on the scoresheet.
With his two goals against San Luis, Messi has now scored 14 goals in 12 Leagues Cup matches and stands alone at the top of the competition’s all-time scoring chart, surpassing Denis Bouanga of Los Angeles FC. He also provided an assist for Micael’s goal with a headed pass during first-half stoppage time.
Luis Suárez was unavailable for Inter Miami and will miss this year’s tournament due to a six-match suspension. The ban stems from last year’s Leagues Cup final against Seattle, which Miami lost 3-0.
