Lionel Messi responded to Argentina’s loss in the 2026 World Cup final by scoring twice and providing an assist as Inter Miami beat Mexican side Atletico de San Luis 4-2 in the Leagues Cup in the early hours of Thursday.
The match was Messi’s first start since Argentina were beaten by Spain in the World Cup final, and the 39-year-old captain delivered an influential performance to underline his readiness to return to his best form for his club.
His two goals also took Messi to 14 in 12 Leagues Cup appearances, making him the competition’s all-time leading scorer. He moved beyond Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga, who had previously held the record with 13 goals, according to French broadcaster RMC.
Atletico de San Luis made the stronger start and took the lead after only four minutes. David Rodriguez rose to head the ball into the net, giving the Mexican side an early advantage.
Inter Miami levelled seven minutes later, with newly signed Brazil international Casemiro helping to create the attack. He played the ball to Noah Allen, whose cross was met by Messi with a first-time finish.
The home side regained the lead in the 26th minute when Venezuela midfielder Telasco Segovia scored. Messi then restored Inter Miami’s advantage just before half-time, completing a move he had started himself with a composed finish in the 44th minute.
Messi was involved again in first-half stoppage time. His accurately delivered corner was turned into the net by Brazilian defender Micael dos Santos, giving Inter Miami a 4-2 lead at the interval and completing the Argentina forward’s three-goal contribution to the match.
Atletico de San Luis reduced the deficit six minutes after the restart through Spanish player Rafael Llorente. However, the goal did not lead to a further comeback and Inter Miami held on to secure victory.
The result provided an immediate response from Messi after a difficult period with the Argentina national team. He had returned to action at the weekend, coming on 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 absence in the wake of Argentina’s defeat by Spain in the World Cup final. His return to the starting line-up against Atletico de San Luis was therefore closely watched, but he quickly made the decisive difference.
Messi’s goals not only helped Inter Miami progress in the Leagues Cup but also established a new scoring landmark in the competition. His latest display moved him past Bouanga and gave him 14 goals from 12 matches in the tournament.