Despite Messi's impactful return after announcing his international retirement, Inter Miami secured only a point in a rain-delayed home fixture.
Lionel Messi immediately demonstrated his enduring quality upon returning to Major League Soccer (MLS) action for Inter Miami on Saturday. The Argentine superstar provided both assists in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Atlanta United, marking his first match since revealing his retirement from international football.
The highly anticipated game at Nu Stadium in Miami, Florida, faced a 90-minute delay due to thunderstorms and lightning. Once play began, however, the field was full of action, with Messi, Argentina's all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, at the center of every key attacking move, according to reporting by Vanguard Nigeria - Sports.
Inter Miami initially took the lead twice in the match, only to be pegged back by a resilient Atlanta United side. Messi's creative brilliance was on full display, showcasing why he remains one of the sport's most influential figures even after stepping away from his national team duties.
Messi's Assists Power Inter Miami Offense
The first breakthrough for Inter Miami came in the 32nd minute when Brazil's Casemiro rose to powerfully head home a corner delivered with pinpoint accuracy by Lionel Messi. This early lead, orchestrated by the Argentine, ignited the home crowd after the lengthy weather delay.
Atlanta United quickly responded just three minutes later. Former Newcastle forward Miguel Almiron found the back of the net with a low, potent shot, leveling the score and ensuring the match remained a tightly contested affair. Messi continued to press for an advantage, his influence growing across the midfield.
Inter Miami regained the lead on the cusp of half-time, thanks to another moment of Messi magic. He initiated a dangerous move down the left flank, culminating in former Liverpool and Barcelona star Luis Suarez converting with a measured finish. This put the home side ahead 2-1 as the first half concluded.
Atlanta United Secures Late Draw
Despite Inter Miami's repeated efforts, Atlanta United refused to yield. Swiss striker Breel Embolo proved to be the hero for the visitors, scoring an 87th-minute penalty to level the match once more. His decisive spot-kick ensured that both teams shared the points from the hard-fought encounter, leaving Inter Miami with a draw despite Messi's dual assist performance.
Other MLS Highlights from Saturday's Action
Across the league, Saturday delivered a series of thrilling matchups. In Toronto, a wild eight-goal thriller unfolded as Toronto FC secured a dramatic 4-4 draw against Chicago. Derrick Etienne scored two minutes into second-half stoppage time for Toronto, while Josh Sargent netted a hat-trick for the home side. Chicago's goals came from Maren Haile-Selassie (twice), an own goal, and Robert Lewandowski's 63rd-minute strike.
Philadelphia Union claimed a 2-0 victory over Montreal, highlighted by a significant milestone. Sixteen-year-old Cavan Sullivan scored in the 75th minute, pushing his season tally to four goals and seven assists. This impressive contribution of 11 scoring involvements sets a new record for a 16-year-old in a single season, surpassing Freddy Adu's mark of 10 in 2005.
Elsewhere, Antoine Griezmann's 28th-minute goal secured a 1-0 home victory for Orlando City over San Diego. Austin FC also managed to salvage a point, with Guilherme Biro scoring in the seventh minute of second-half stoppage time to clinch a 1-1 draw against San Jose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Inter Miami vs. Atlanta United match?
The match between Inter Miami CF and Atlanta United FC ended in a 2-2 draw, with both teams sharing the points after a hard-fought contest.
How many assists did Lionel Messi contribute in his return to MLS?
Lionel Messi contributed two assists in the match, setting up both of Inter Miami's goals against Atlanta United in his first MLS appearance since announcing his international retirement.
Who scored for Inter Miami in the draw against Atlanta United?
Inter Miami's goals were scored by Brazil's Casemiro, who headed in a corner from Messi, and Luis Suarez, who finished a move initiated by Messi.
Who holds the record for most scoring contributions by a 16-year-old in an MLS season?
Cavan Sullivan of Philadelphia Union now holds the record, with 11 scoring contributions (4 goals, 7 assists) this season, surpassing Freddy Adu's previous mark of 10 set in 2005.
Were there any other notable results in MLS on Saturday?
Yes, Saturday also saw Toronto FC draw 4-4 with Chicago Fire, Philadelphia Union beat Montreal 2-0, Orlando City defeat San Diego 1-0, and Austin FC draw 1-1 with San Jose Earthquakes.