Lionel Messi marks return with brace for Inter Miami

Lionel Messi returned to action in emphatic fashion, scoring twice as Inter Miami opened their Leagues Cup campaign with a 4-2 victory over Mexican side Atletico San Luis. The Argentina forward was once again central to the result, immediately reasserting his influence after his return to the pitch following the 2026 World Cup.

Messi makes instant impact

There was little need for an adjustment period. Back in the Inter Miami side, Messi quickly became the defining figure of the contest and led his team to a winning start in the competition. His two goals underlined how decisive he remains whenever he is available, particularly in matches where Inter Miami need a player capable of shifting the momentum.

The performance also reinforced a familiar pattern around Messi’s club career in the United States: when he returns, he tends to do so with authority. Against Atletico San Luis, that authority was reflected not only in the scoreline but in his status as the standout player on the night.

Winning start in the Leagues Cup

For Inter Miami, the result represented an ideal opening to their Leagues Cup run. Beating Atletico San Luis 4-2 gave the team both a positive start and a reminder of the attacking edge they possess when Messi is on the field.

While the team result will matter most to the coaching staff, the broader significance of the evening was difficult to ignore. Messi’s return brought immediate end product, and Inter Miami were able to turn that into a victory against Mexican opposition in a competition designed to test clubs across the region.

Another record for Messi

Beyond the two goals and the win, Messi also set another record, adding yet another milestone to a career already defined by them. The source material does not specify the exact nature of the record, but it was enough to add an extra layer of significance to an already memorable return.

That combination of individual achievement and team success is what has long separated Messi from almost everyone else in the game. On this occasion, Inter Miami benefited immediately, with their leading star back on the pitch and back in decisive form.

• Messi returned to action after the 2026 World Cup
• He scored twice for Inter Miami
• Inter Miami beat Atletico San Luis 4-2
• The match was Inter Miami’s first game in the Leagues Cup
• Messi also set another record