# Just 13 Days After World Cup Final, Messi Returns for Inter Miami

> Lionel Messi returned for Inter Miami just 13 days after Argentina's World Cup final defeat, coming off the bench in a 2-2 draw against the Columbus Crew. The Argentine nearly scored moments after entering, but his shot…

Published: 2026-08-02 · Desk: Latest · Source: ESPN

Lionel Messi returned to action for Inter Miami on Saturday, just 13 days after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

The Argentine captain started on the bench before coming on in the 53rd minute during Inter Miami's 2-2 draw against the Columbus Crew at Nu Stadium. He received a standing ovation from the home fans on his first appearance since the World Cup.

Messi nearly marked his return with a goal just three minutes after entering the match. Latching onto a pass from Luis Suárez, he unleashed a left-footed effort from inside the box, but the shot narrowly missed the target.

Suárez had earlier put Miami ahead with a stunning long-range strike before assisting Noah Allen for the hosts' second goal. However, Columbus equalized twice—first through a Casemiro own goal on the Brazilian midfielder's home debut and later via a Brais Méndez free kick in the 84th minute—to earn a point.

After the match, Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos praised Messi and fellow Argentine Rodrigo De Paul for returning to the squad after the World Cup.

"I want to thank Leo and Rodrí for being here. Their return has been very important for us," Hoyos said, while also commending the team's overall effort in a highly competitive league.

Hoyos also defended Casemiro despite his own goal, describing the Brazilian as "one of the best players in the world" and a key signing who brings balance, quality, and experience to the team.

Messi enjoyed an outstanding World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals and providing four assists as he led Argentina to a second consecutive final. Following the tournament, both he and De Paul were given time off, missing two MLS matches and the MLS All-Star Game before returning to training earlier this week.

Inter Miami now turn their attention to the Leagues Cup, where they will host Atlético de San Luis before taking on Monterrey and León as they aim to reach the knockout stage.

Original reporting: https://www.espn.in/football/story/_/id/49507355/lionel-messi-inter-miami-lineup-columbus-crew-mls-world-cup
HTML: https://tezzfeed.com/latest-news/just-13-days-after-world-cup-final-messi-returns-for-inter-miami-1785650756128
Bangladesh desk: https://tezzfeed.com/bangladeshi-news.md
Agent map: https://tezzfeed.com/llms.txt