Lionel Messi scores a goal against the Columbus Crew at Chase Stadium. Messi scored two goals in Inter Miami's 5-1 win. TSN
Lionel Messi once again proved why he’s the heartbeat of Inter Miami. In a thrilling Leagues Cup opener against Atlas on Wednesday night, Messi delivered two crucial assists—one in the dying seconds—to secure a 2-1 victory for the home team at Chase Stadium.
The Argentine star returned to the lineup after serving a one-match suspension for missing the MLS All-Star Game. He made his comeback count in style.
Messi’s Magic Sparks Miami’s Opening Goal
Messi played a pivotal role throughout the match. His first assist came in the 58th minute. After receiving a pinpoint through ball from Sergio Busquets, Messi calmly set up Telasco Segovia, who slotted the ball into the net to give Inter Miami a 1-0 lead.
The play showed Messi’s trademark vision and precision, reigniting Miami’s attacking momentum in a game that had been tightly contested up to that point.
Lionel Messi celebrates with his Inter Miami teammate after scoring a goal against CF Montreal during the first half at Saputo Stadium. Messi had two goals in Inter Miami's 4-1 win.
Atlas Levels the Score Late in the Game
Atlas, the spirited side from Guadalajara, wasn’t ready to go down without a fight. In the 80th minute, Rivaldo Lozano equalized with a tidy finish, making it 1-1. The energy at Chase Stadium shifted as fans sensed the possibility of extra time—or even penalties.
However, Messi had other plans.
A Last-Second Assist and VAR Drama
With the match seconds from ending, Messi delivered a beautifully timed cross into the box. Marcelo Weigandt met it and fired home what looked to be the winning goal. But the celebrations were cut short as the assistant referee raised the offside flag.
VAR intervened. After a tense wait, the decision was overturned, confirming the goal and sending the crowd into a frenzy. Fireworks lit up the Miami sky as Messi celebrated with teammates Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suárez.
Messi's Stellar July Continues
Messi's performance capped off a remarkable month. With this match, he added his fifth assist in July. That’s on top of eight goals and a string of standout performances that earned him the title of MLS Player of the Month.
Inter Miami’s league form has also benefited. The team boasts a 4-1-1 record in their last six matches.
Midfield Debut and A Heated Moment
The night also marked the debut of Rodrigo De Paul in Inter Miami colors. The Argentine midfielder and Messi's longtime international teammate officially joined the squad just last week.
During the first half, tension flared between Miami coach Javier Mascherano and Atlas boss Gonzalo Pineda. The disagreement followed an incident where play continued after an Atlas player went down injured. The matter was resolved after the match.
“It was just a football moment,” Pineda explained. “Nothing personal. We cleared it up afterwards.”
Mascherano and Messi React to Dramatic Finish
After the final whistle, emotions poured out. Mascherano, visibly relieved, commented on the dramatic win.
“We didn’t play brilliantly,” he admitted. “But we fought till the end and got the result in an epic way.”
Pineda, meanwhile, noted Messi’s passionate celebration with surprise. “He’s won everything,” he said. “Yet he still shows that hunger and joy. That’s what makes him special.”
Inter Miami Eyes Next Challenge
With this victory, Inter Miami has kicked off their Leagues Cup campaign on a high. Led by Lionel Messi, the squad now sets sights on building momentum and chasing more silverware.
One thing is clear: when Messi is on the pitch, Inter Miami always has a chance—right up until the final second.
