Dbarta24 Sports Desk — Argentine icon Lionel Messi returned to the starting lineup in stellar fashion, delivering a masterclass that included two goals and an assist to lead Inter Miami to a resounding 4–2 victory over Mexican club San Luis in the Leagues Cup.
The match marked Messi’s first start since the 2026 World Cup. It followed a brief appearance as a substitute last Sunday in a 2–2 Major League Soccer (MLS) draw against Columbus Crew, where he did not find the back of the net.
A Historic Night in Florida
With his brace, Messi etched his name further into the history books by becoming the all-time leading scorer in Leagues Cup history.
Since the tournament was revamped in its current format in 2023, Messi has amassed 14 goals, surpassing the previous record held by Los Angeles FC’s Denis Bouanga. Notably, this feat was accomplished in just 12 tournament matches, a stretch that includes five multi-goal performances.
Overcoming an Early Setback
Inter Miami faced a rocky start when San Luis capitalized early, taking a 1–0 lead in the 4th minute through a goal by David Rodríguez.
However, Miami’s talisman quickly shifted the momentum. In the 11th minute, Messi met an inviting cross from Allen with a stunning volley, slamming it home to equalize for the hosts. The strike marked his first goal in an Inter Miami shirt following the 2026 World Cup.
Miami seized control in the 26th minute when Telasco Segovia scored to put them ahead 2–1. Just before halftime, in the 44th minute, Messi struck again. Capitalizing on a loose ball inside the penalty box, he delivered a clinical finish to extend Miami’s lead to 3–1.
The first-half onslaught continued deep into stoppage time. In the 7th minute of added time, Micael rose to head home a precise corner kick delivered by Messi, sending Inter Miami into the break with a commanding 4–1 advantage.
Weather Delay and Closing Out the Win
Though San Luis managed to pull one back early in the second half through Rafael Lorente in the 51st minute, it proved to be nothing more than a consolation.
The match experienced a brief disruption midway through the second half when heavy rainfall in Florida forced a suspension of play for over half an hour.
Once conditions cleared and play resumed, San Luis attempted to mount a comeback, but Inter Miami’s defense stood firm, comfortably securing the 4–2 victory.
With this impressive win, Inter Miami kicks off their Leagues Cup campaign on a high note. They will return to action on August 9 against another Mexican powerhouse, Monterrey.