Play store
Lionel Messi scored his first goals since the World Cup and became the all-time leading scorer in Leagues Cup history as Inter Miami cruised to a 4-2 victory over Atlético San Luis on Wednesday night.
Playing in rainy conditions at Nu Stadium, Inter Miami fell behind early when David Rodríguez headed San Luis into the lead in the fourth minute. However, Messi inspired a quick comeback, leveling the score in the 11th minute with a superb finish from Noah Allen’s cross.
The Argentine captain struck again in the 44th minute from close range to put Miami ahead before also providing an assist for Michael’s goal in first-half stoppage time.
Messi’s brace took his Leagues Cup tally to 14 goals in just 12 appearances since the tournament adopted its current format in 2023, making him the competition’s all-time leading scorer. He surpassed Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga’s previous record and also registered his fifth brace in the tournament.
The second half was interrupted for more than 30 minutes because of heavy rain in Florida before play resumed. Telasco Segovia added Inter Miami’s fourth goal, while Rafa Llorente pulled one back for Atlético San Luis.
The match marked Messi’s second appearance for Inter Miami since Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the World Cup final and his first start after returning to action. He had come off the bench against Columbus Crew last Saturday.
Inter Miami were without veteran striker Luis Suárez, who is serving a six-match suspension following an altercation in last year’s Leagues Cup final against Seattle Sounders.
