Lionel Messi breaks Leagues Cup scoring record with brace against Atletico de San Luis

Lionel Messi returned to top form with a brace and an assist as Inter Miami came from behind to defeat Atlético San Luis 4-2 in their opening match of the 2026 Leagues Cup on Wednesday.

The Argentine captain scored his first goals since the FIFA World Cup, helping Miami overturn an early deficit and extend their unbeaten run to eight matches.

The contest at Nu Stadium was briefly halted for 30 minutes in the second half because of lightning in the area.

Atlético San Luis made the brighter start, taking the lead in the fourth minute when David Rodríguez headed home. However, Messi restored parity in the 11th minute, finishing from Noah Allen's cross after a swift attacking move.

Inter Miami completed the turnaround before halftime when Telasco Segovia found the net, and Messi struck again in the 44th minute after combining with his teammates to give the hosts a 3-1 advantage.

Defender Micael added Miami's fourth goal in stoppage time from a Messi corner, while Rafa Llorente pulled one back for the Mexican club to complete the 4-2 scoreline.

Allen finished with three assists in an impressive display.

The brace also saw Messi write another chapter in Leagues Cup history. The 39-year-old now has 14 goals in 12 Leagues Cup appearances, overtaking Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga (13) to become the tournament's all-time leading scorer.

Messi had returned to Inter Miami's starting XI after making his comeback from international duty as a substitute in last weekend's 2-2 draw against the Columbus Crew. He captained Argentina to a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final before La Albiceleste were beaten 1-0 by Spain.

Meanwhile, Messi has donated 80,000 euros towards the reconstruction efforts in areas of Madrid affected by the devastating wildfires that swept through the Spanish capital in recent weeks.

Isabel Diaz Ayuso, president of the Madrid regional government, announced the Argentine star's contribution on social media and thanked him for his generous gesture in support of the affected communities.

"Leo Messi has donated 80,000 euros to rebuild the Sierra Oeste area in Madrid. I would like to thank him, and to tell him that the people of Madrid look forward to welcoming him soon and giving him the applause he deserves," Diaz said.