Lionel Messi's First Appearance After the World Cup

Argentine star Lionel Messi returned to Major League Soccer (MLS) action yesterday after participating in the 2026 World Cup, coming on as a substitute in the second half as his team, Inter Miami, drew 2-2 with Columbus Crew. Two weeks after Argentina’s loss to Spain in the North American-hosted World Cup final, Messi returned to the pitch, entering the match in the 53rd minute to a warm reception from fans at Miami’s “New Stadium.” However, he was unable to celebrate his return with a goal, managing only two shots that missed the target.

Uruguayan forward Luis Suárez opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the 16th minute, netting his seventh goal in his last four matches. Columbus Crew equalized at 1-1 through an own goal by Brazilian midfielder Casemiro in the 34th minute. Suárez then set up Greek-American forward Noah Allen, who headed in a goal just before halftime. However, Spanish midfielder Brais Méndez, making his debut for Columbus after transferring from Real Sociedad, scored a stunning free-kick in the 84th minute to secure the draw.

The result halted Inter Miami’s six-game winning streak but kept them in second place in the Eastern Conference, behind Nashville SC, which also drew 2-2 with D.C. United. In the Western Conference, Los Angeles FC and Vancouver Whitecaps remained tied at the top after a 1-1 draw at BC Place in Vancouver. South Korean star Son Heung-min gave Los Angeles the lead in the 37th minute, while German star Thomas Müller equalized from a penalty kick in the 76th minute.