Messi Brace Powers Inter Miami to 4-1 Leagues Cup Win Over San Luis

Lionel Messi marked his first start for Inter Miami since the 2026 World Cup final with a clinical brace, leading the Herons to a dominant 4-1 victory over Mexican side Atlético San Luis in the Leagues Cup on Wednesday night at Nu Stadium.

Just 17 days after Argentina’s extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final, the 39-year-old returned to the starting lineup and immediately rediscovered his scoring touch. Messi equalized in the 11th minute with a precise left-footed finish from Noah Allen’s cross, then added a second goal in the 44th minute to make it 3-1. He also provided the assist for Micael’s stoppage-time strike that sealed the result.

San Luis had taken an early lead through David Rodríguez in the fourth minute, but Inter Miami responded swiftly. Telasco Segovia scored the second goal before Messi’s second and Micael’s late contribution completed the rout.

The performance lifts Messi’s career goal tally to 921, according to tracking by football outlet 433, alongside 418 assists. It was his first goals since the World Cup and underlined his enduring impact for the MLS champions.Inter Miami now turn their attention to the rest of the Leagues Cup group stage, with Messi once again central to their ambitions.