Messi strikes twice and sets Leagues Cup scoring record in Inter Miami win

Lionel Messi marked his first start since Argentina’s 2026 World Cup final defeat with two goals and an assist as Inter Miami beat Atletico de San Luis 4-2 in the Leagues Cup on Thursday.

The result offered an immediate response from Messi after Argentina lost to Spain in the World Cup final. The 39-year-old captain was involved in three of Inter Miami’s goals and showed he was ready to return to his best form following his brief comeback from the tournament.

Messi also became the leading scorer in Leagues Cup history. His two goals took his total to 14 in 12 appearances, moving him ahead of Los Angeles FC striker Denis Bouanga, who had scored 13 times in the competition, according to French broadcaster RMC.

Atletico de San Luis made the stronger start and took the lead in the fourth minute. David Rodriguez rose to meet a cross and headed the Mexican side in front.

Inter Miami levelled seven minutes later after a move involving the club’s recent signing Casemiro. The Brazil midfielder played the ball to Noah Allen, whose cross found Messi inside the area. Messi met it first time and directed his shot into the net to make it 1-1.

Inter Miami continued to pose the greater attacking threat and moved in front in the 26th minute. Venezuela international Telasco Segovia finished the move to give the home side a 2-1 advantage.

Messi then added his second goal of the night shortly before half-time. He began the attack himself before completing it in the 44th minute, restoring Inter Miami’s two-goal lead and reaching 14 Leagues Cup goals.

The Argentina forward supplied another decisive contribution in stoppage time at the end of the first half. His accurately delivered corner was met by Brazilian defender Micael dos Santos, who converted the chance to put Inter Miami 4-1 ahead.

Atletico de San Luis reduced the deficit six minutes after the restart when Spain’s Rafael Llorente scored in the 51st minute. However, the goal did not spark a further comeback, and Inter Miami held on for a 4-2 victory.

The match was Messi’s first start since Argentina’s defeat by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. He had returned to action at the weekend as a substitute in Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw with Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer.

That appearance came after Messi resumed training following a 10-day break, which began after the World Cup final. His performance against Atletico de San Luis means he has now made an immediate impact after returning to club duty, while also claiming the individual scoring record in the Leagues Cup.