Messi revives the version that left the world in awe.

Messi left supporters talking once more with a direct hand in three goals, inspiring Inter Miami to overturn a deficit against Atl San Luis on the opening day of the 2026 Leagues Cup.

Inter Miami began their 2026 Leagues Cup journey with a 4-2 victory against Atl San Luis, yet the game once again revolved around Lionel Messi. Even though the home side conceded an early goal after just three minutes, the Argentine legend wasted no time demonstrating his pivotal role, sparking the MLS team's reversal.

Rodriguez put Atl San Luis ahead with a precise header, yet Inter Miami replied almost immediately. Seven minutes later, Messi arrived at the perfect spot inside the area to slot home a first-time equalizer. Then, in the 25th minute, Segovia turned the match around for the hosts. However, Messi's explosive display was far from over, as he continued to make his mark before the interval.

In the 43rd minute, Inter Miami's skipper displayed clever footwork in the penalty area and unleashed a confident strike to extend the lead to 3-1. Then, on the stroke of halftime, Messi whipped in an accurately placed corner that Micael headed in, sending the hosts into the interval with a comfortable 4-1 margin. During that first period, the 39-year-old scored two goals and set up another, having a direct hand in three of Miami's four tallies.

Messi's superiority also showed up in the statistics. He completed 28 of his 31 passes (90% accuracy) and registered five shots, with four on target. Beyond his clinical finishes, the ex-Barcelona captain continually exerted pressure, making life miserable for Atl San Luis's defense for the entire opening period.

After the break, Atl San Luis pushed hard and reduced the deficit to 2-4 courtesy of a brilliant curler from Sergio in the 51st minute. The Liga MX outfit continued to pile on pressure, particularly in the last twenty minutes, yet Inter Miami's backline stood strong, preserving the lead and taking the full three points in their opener.

The 4-2 victory not only gave Inter Miami a perfect start in the 2026 Leagues Cup but once again confirmed Lionel Messi's influence. On a day when the team found itself in trouble due to an early goal conceded, it was the Argentine superstar who changed the course with decisive actions, once more proving that he remains an indispensable figure in the MLS side's pursuit of silverware.