Lionel Messi returned to the scoresheet in style, netting twice to become the all-time leading scorer in Leagues Cup history during Inter Miami's opening match against Atletico de San Luis on Thursday.

At the time of writing, Inter Miami lead 4-2, with the match still in progress in the second half.

Messi, making his first start after returning from injury following a substitute appearance against the Columbus Crew, helped Inter Miami recover after Atletico de San Luis took an early lead through David Rodriguez in the fourth minute.

The Argentine equalised in the 11th minute, finishing Noah Allen's cross after a flowing move involving Casemiro.

Inter Miami then went ahead in the 26th minute when Telasco Segovia converted another dangerous delivery from Allen before Messi struck again later in the first half. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner combined with Casemiro and Yannick Bright before calmly finishing to complete his brace.

In the second half, Messi also provided an assist, delivering a corner that Micael converted as Inter Miami extended their advantage. San Luis pulled one back later in the match to make it 4-2.

Messi's first-half brace also secured a place in the Leagues Cup record books. The Argentine now has 14 goals in just 12 Leagues Cup appearances, moving past LAFC forward Denis Bouanga (13) to become the competition's all-time leading scorer.

Messi had scored 10 goals during Inter Miami's title-winning Leagues Cup campaign in 2023. After injury-disrupted appearances in the following two editions, he has marked his return to the tournament by reclaiming the spotlight and setting a new scoring benchmark.

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.