Lionel Messi demonstrated his class in his first official match for Inter Miami following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. The 39-year-old Argentine started the game and put on a true performance, scoring a brace and providing an assist in a determined victory over Mexican side Atletico San Luis.
The match of the opening round of the 2026 Leagues Cup, held at the New Stadium, ended with a 4-2 scoreline in favor of the American team. This victory served as a strong statement of intent for the Floridians for the new season, despite the absence of injured and suspended players in the squad.
Match progression: from conceding a goal to a rout
The start of the match was unfortunate for the hosts. By the 4th minute, the Mexican club took the lead thanks to a strike by David Rodriguez. However, Inter Miami responded instantly and with character.
In the 11th minute, Lionel Messi headed home a cross from the left flank by Noah Allen to equalize. Shortly after, the Argentine assisted Telasco Segovia, who put Inter ahead. Before halftime, Messi completed his brace, again capitalizing on a combination with Allen. In stoppage time of the first half, Mickael converted a corner from Messi, making the score 4-1.
The second half took place in difficult weather conditions: the match had to be suspended due to a downpour. Despite the pause, Atletico San Luis managed to score a consolation goal in the 51st minute thanks to Rafa Llorente. Ultimately, the score remained unchanged at 4-2.
New record: Messi is the top scorer in tournament history
This match was significant for the statistics of the Inter Miami captain. His second goal of the game became his 14th in Leagues Cup competitions. This achievement allowed him to overtake Deni Bouanga of Los Angeles and become the sole top scorer in the history of the tournament.
Special mention should be made of defender Noah Allen, who completed an assist hat-trick, setting up goals for Messi (twice) and Segovia.
Squad issues: Suarez's suspension and Silveti's injury
The victory was marred by two negative pieces of news for the Inter Miami coaching staff. Firstly, forward Luis Suarez will miss the entire tournament. The Uruguayan received a 6-match suspension for an incident involving spitting at a member of the Seattle coaching staff, which occurred in the 2025 Leagues Cup final.
Secondly, problems arose with young striker Mateo Silveti. In the second half, he sustained an injury and was forced to leave the field in the 83rd minute, which could complicate the squad's attacking situation for upcoming matches.
Context of return
It is important to note that this match was Messi's first for Inter Miami after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. It was previously reported that the footballer ignored a parade for fans in Argentina, which sparked a storm of reaction in the media. However, on the pitch in Miami, the Argentine showed that his motivation and playing qualities have not wavered.
Inter Miami started confidently in the 2026 Leagues Cup, proving that even without key players, they are capable of challenging and winning thanks to the individual skill of their leader.
