Lionel Messi becomes Leagues Cup record goalscorer as Inter Miami defeat Atletico San Luis 4-2

Lionel Messi marked his return to goalscoring fashion by firing two goals and supplying an assist as Inter Miami came from behind to defeat Atletico San Luis 4-2 in their opening match of the 2026 Leagues Cup.

The Argentine superstar reached another historic milestone by becoming the competition's all-time leading goalscorer with 14 goals, surpassing Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga to claim sole ownership of the record.

The victory also extended Inter Miami's unbeaten run to eight matches, giving Javier Mascherano's side a strong start in the annual tournament featuring clubs from Major League Soccer and Liga MX.

San Luis strike early before Messi responds

The Mexican visitors stunned the home crowd inside four minutes when David Rodriguez headed San Luis into an early lead. Inter Miami responded almost immediately through their talisman.

In the 11th minute, Messi collected Noah Allen's delivery before calmly finishing beyond goalkeeper Andres Sanchez to restore parity and score his first goal since returning from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Miami's growing dominance was rewarded again in the 26th minute when Telasco Segovia completed a flowing attacking move to put the MLS side ahead for the first time.

Messi added his second just before halftime, finishing clinically in the 44th minute to hand Inter Miami a comfortable 3-1 advantage heading into the interval.

Lightning delay fails to halt Miami momentum

The second half was briefly interrupted by severe weather, with officials suspending play for approximately 30 minutes because of lightning around Nu Stadium. Once play resumed, Inter Miami maintained control of the contest.

Messi turned provider during stoppage time when his delivery was headed home by defender Micael, effectively sealing the victory.

San Luis pulled one goal back through Rafa Llorente, but it proved only a consolation as Miami comfortably saw out the match.

Historic milestone for Messi

Messi's brace elevated his Leagues Cup tally to 14 goals in just 12 appearances, making him the competition's most prolific player since its launch.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner had previously shared the record with LAFC striker Denis Bouanga, but now stands alone at the summit. His latest performance also marked his first goals since Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, having made only a substitute appearance in Inter Miami's previous outing against Columbus Crew.

Suarez still serving suspension

Inter Miami were once again without veteran striker Luis Suarez, who continues to serve a six-match Leagues Cup suspension following incidents during last year's tournament final against Seattle Sounders.

Despite Suarez's absence, Miami's attack looked sharp throughout, with Noah Allen contributing three assists while Segovia and Micael also found the scoresheet.

Messi's influence ensured the Florida club began another Leagues Cup campaign in impressive fashion as they chase a second title after lifting the trophy in 2023.

Key Match Statistics

• Result: Inter Miami 4-2 Atletico San Luis
• Goals: Messi (11', 44'), Segovia (26'), Micael (90+), Rodriguez (4'), Llorente
• Record: Messi becomes Leagues Cup's all-time top scorer (14 goals)
• Assists: Noah Allen (3), Messi (1)
• Competition: 2026 Leagues Cup Group Stage
• Venue: Nu Stadium, Miami

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