Double and assist: Messi chases record at Inter Miami

Two weeks after the World Cup final loss to Spain, Lionel Messi returned to Inter Miami and immediately rewrote the competition’s record books, delivering a double and an assist on the opening matchday of the Leagues Cup in a 4-2 victory over Atlético San Luis.

Two and a half weeks earlier, Messi endured a 0‑1 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. The loss marked a rare disappointment for the Argentine superstar. It was the last match before his return to club football.

Back at Inter Miami, the 39‑year‑old immediately took his place on the pitch. His presence was billed as historic for the Beckham‑named club.

On the opening matchday of the Leagues Cup, the Herons defeated Atlético San Luis of Mexico 4‑2. Messi contributed a double and an assist, directly influencing three of the four goals.

With those two goals, Messi became the sole record scorer in the competition that pits US and Mexican teams against each other. He now holds 14 successful attempts, surpassing Gabonese striker Denis Bouanga.

Bouanga had a chance to reclaim the record the same night, but his only goal in a 1‑1 draw with Guadalajara counted as his 13th. Thus Messi retained the lead.

In the current season, Messi has already found the net 15 times in 18 games and delivered his eighth assist. His career tally now stands at 921 goals.

Messi’s contract with Inter Miami runs until the end of 2028, when he will be 41 years old. The long‑term deal secures the Argentine legend for the next several seasons.