Lionel Messi scores twice as Inter Miami beat San Luis in Leagues Cup
Lionel Messi scored twice on his return from the World Cup as Inter Miami recovered from an early deficit to beat Atletico de San Luis 4-2 in their opening match of the 2026 Leagues Cup.
The visitors took a surprise fourth-minute lead in Miami when David Rodriguez headed past goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo.
However, the advantage was short-lived as the Argentina captain quickly equalised with a superb volley.
Meeting Noah Allen’s cross from the left flank, the talismanic forward redirected the ball into the net while running at full speed.
Record-breaking return for Miami captain
Allen then turned provider for a second time midway through the first half, slipping a precise through ball behind the opposition defence.
Telasco Segovia benefited from the creative play, powering a shot home to give the Florida outfit the lead.
The hosts extended their advantage before the break following another intricate attacking move orchestrated by Allen.
Finding space in the penalty area, the former Parisian evaded two defenders before burying a close-range strike past Andres Sanchez.
That finish established the World Cup runner-up as the all-time leading goalscorer in Leagues Cup history with 14 goals.
He surpasses Denis Bouanga at the top of the standings, securing his fifth multi-goal performance in just 12 appearances in the competition.
Suarez absent as Allen shines
Micael added a fourth for Miami with a towering header from a corner just before half-time.
A torrential downpour caused a delay in the second half, during which Sergio scored a spectacular long-range effort to reduce the deficit for the visitors.
Despite late pressure from the away side, Miami held firm to secure a comfortable victory in their tournament opener.
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent arm injury to second-half substitute Mateo Silvetti, who was forced off in the 83rd minute.
Miami were also playing without veteran striker Luis Suarez, who is currently serving a six-match ban.
The Uruguayan international was suspended for spitting at a Seattle Sounders staff member following his team’s defeat in the 2025 Leagues Cup final.
Inter Miami will next face Monterrey on Saturday, while San Luis are scheduled to play Nashville SC on Sunday.