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Lionel Messi scores first goals since FIFA World Cup 2026 final heartbreak | Football News

Sandy Verma | August 6, 2026 12:24 PM CST

Lionel Messi scored his first two goals since the FIFA World Cup as Inter Miami came from behind to beat Atlético San Luis 4-2 in the Leagues Cup on Wednesday. The Argentine superstar also became the tournament’s all-time leading scorer with the victory.Argentina finished runners-up at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing 1-0 to Spain in extra time in the final at the New York/New Jersey Stadium.

Messi back among the goals

San Luis took an early lead when David Rodríguez scored with a header in the fourth minute.Messi responded quickly, scoring in the 11th minute to bring Inter Miami level. He found the net again in the 44th minute to give his side the lead before halftime.With the two goals, Messi now has 14 goals in 12 Leagues Cup matches. He moved ahead of Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga, who has 13 goals, to become the competition’s highest scorer.

Inter Miami continue unbeaten run

Telasco Segovia and defender Micael also scored for Inter Miami, while Noah Allen provided three assists.Messi also set up Micael’s goal in first-half stoppage time.Inter Miami have now stretched their unbeaten run to eight matches.The game at Nu Stadium was delayed for 30 minutes during the second half because of lightning in the area.

Messi returns to scoring form

This was Messi’s second match since the World Cup, where he led Argentina to a second straight final before the team lost 1-0 to Spain.The 39-year-old had returned as a substitute against the Columbus Crew last weekend and played 37 minutes in the 2-2 draw without scoring.He made a much bigger impact against San Luis by scoring twice and providing an assist.

Suárez misses the match

Rafa Llorente scored the other goal for San Luis.Luis Suárez was unavailable for Inter Miami because he is serving a six-match Leagues Cup suspension.The veteran striker was suspended after last year’s Leagues Cup final defeat to Seattle, which ended in a brawl. Suárez had scored seven goals in his previous four matches before the suspension and will miss this year’s tournament.