Lionel Messi Makes Goalless Return For Inter Miami After World Cup Heartbreak

Last Updated:August 02, 2026, 13:12 IST

Lionel Messi is back in action after taking a short break following the FIFA World Cup 2026 where his Argentina finished as the runners-up.

Lionel Messi made his return to Major League Soccer on Saturday following his World Cup campaign, coming off the bench as Inter Miami settled for a 2-2 draw against Columbus Crew.

Just two weeks after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the World Cup final, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was back in action, replacing a teammate in the 53rd minute at Miami’s Nu Stadium to a rousing reception from the home crowd.

Messi had two opportunities to score but sent both efforts wide.

Inter Miami struck first in the 16th minute when Luis Suarez continued his rich vein of form, netting his seventh goal in four matches.

Columbus found an equalizer in the 34th minute after Miami midfielder Casemiro, formerly of Manchester United and Real Madrid, turned the ball into his own net.

Suarez then played provider before halftime, setting up Noah Allen, whose header restored Miami’s lead and gave the hosts a 2-1 advantage at the break.

The visitors rescued a point late in the contest through Brais Mendez. Making his debut for Columbus after joining from Spain’s Real Sociedad, the midfielder curled home a free-kick in the 84th minute to level the score at 2-2.

The draw snapped Inter Miami’s six-game winning run, although the club remained second in the Eastern Conference behind Nashville, who were also held to a 2-2 draw by DC United.

In the Western Conference, Los Angeles FC and Vancouver Whitecaps stayed tied atop the standings after sharing the points in a 1-1 draw at BC Place.

Son Heung-min extended his impressive scoring run since the MLS resumed following the World Cup, giving Los Angeles the lead in the 37th minute with his fourth goal in four games.

Vancouver responded in the 76th minute when Germany’s Thomas Mueller converted from the penalty spot.

Son, the former Tottenham forward who faced criticism after South Korea failed to advance beyond the World Cup group stage, also claimed MVP honors at Wednesday’s MLS All-Star Game.

With AFP Inputs

About the Author

Feroz Khan

Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent. He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience ...Read More

News sports football Lionel Messi Makes Goalless Return For Inter Miami After World Cup Heartbreak

Read More