Making his first starting lineup appearance since the World Cup, Lionel Messi delivered a stellar performance with a brace and an assist, leading Inter Miami to a resounding 4–2 victory over Mexican club San Luis in the Leagues Cup.

Last Sunday in Major League Soccer (MLS), Messi had appeared as a substitute against Columbus, though he failed to score in the 2–2 draw.

With his double in this morning's match in Miami, Messi also became the all-time leading goalscorer in Leagues Cup history.

Since the tournament was relaunched in its current format in 2023, he has amassed 14 goals, surpassing the previous record held by Los Angeles FC's Denis Bouanga.

In 12 career Leagues Cup appearances, this marks the fifth time Messi has scored two goals in a single match.

However, Inter Miami did not have an ideal start against the Mexican side. San Luis took an early lead in the 4th minute through a goal by David Rodríguez.

The Argentine legend quickly turned the tide, equalizing in the 11th minute with a spectacular volley from Allen's cross. This marked his first goal in an Inter Miami jersey since the 2026 World Cup.

Miami then surged ahead in the 26th minute courtesy of a goal by Telasco Segovia.

Holding a 2–1 advantage, Messi received a ball inside the box and produced a clinical finish for his second goal of the night, extending the hosts' lead to 3–1 by the 44th minute. Miami further widened the gap to 4–1 just before halftime.

Capitalizing on a corner kick delivered by Messi, Mikael scored with a header in the seventh minute of stoppage time in the first half.

Although Rafael Lorente pulled one back for San Luis in the 51st minute, Miami comfortably secured the 4–2 win at the final whistle.

Heavy rainfall in Florida forced a suspension of play for over half an hour midway through the second half.

After the match resumed, San Luis attempted to mount a comeback but failed to breach Miami’s defense again.

With this triumph, Inter Miami has made a stellar start to their Leagues Cup campaign. They will face another Mexican club, Monterrey, in their next fixture on August 9.