Lionel Messi makes his debut with Inter Miami

Argentine star Lionel Messi returned to Major League Soccer (MLS) competition on Sunday morning 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 “Nou Stadium.”

However, the 2022 World Cup champion in Qatar was unable to celebrate his return with a goal, managing only two shots that missed the target.

The draw ended Inter Miami’s six-match winning streak, but they retained second place in the Eastern Conference behind Nashville, 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 Vancouver’s “BC Place.”

South Korean star Son Heung-min continued his impressive form, raising his tally to four goals in four matches when he gave Los Angeles the lead in the 37th minute.

However, German star Thomas Müller equalized for Vancouver from a penalty kick in the 76th minute.