Lionel Messi Makes First Appearance After 2026 World Cup in Inter Miami Draw
Lionel Messi returned to action with Inter Miami after the 2026 World Cup, coming off the bench against Columbus Crew in an MLS match that ended in a 2-2 draw.
By: Lionel Messi
Argentine star Lionel Messi returned to competitive action once again after featuring with his team Inter Miami in their match against Columbus Crew in the MLS, marking his first appearance following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match witnessed great excitement between the two teams, as the game ended in a 2-2 draw. The encounter was played as part of the Eastern Conference competitions in Major League Soccer.
Messi Returns to the Pitch After the 2026 World Cup
Lionel Messi participated in the Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew match as a substitute, entering the field in the 53rd minute in place of player Daniel Pinter.
Despite the return of the Argentina national team captain, Messi was unable to score or provide an assist during the minutes he played, as he continues working to regain his full match fitness in the upcoming games.
Messi's appearance came after representing Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the team lost the title to Spain after a 1-0 defeat in the final.
Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew Match Goals
Inter Miami opened the scoring early through Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez, who scored the first goal in the 16th minute.
Columbus Crew quickly returned to the match after Casemiro scored an own goal in the 34th minute, giving the opponents the equalizer.
In the final moments of the first half, Noah Allen scored Inter Miami's second goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time, giving the hosts a 2-1 lead at halftime.
In the second half, Columbus Crew player Bryce Mendes scored the equalizer in the 84th minute, ending the match in a 2-2 draw.
Inter Miami's Position After the Draw Against Columbus Crew
Inter Miami remained in second place in the Eastern Conference standings of Major League Soccer with 38 points, behind league leaders Nashville SC.
Meanwhile, Columbus Crew occupy 11th place in the Eastern Conference standings with 20 points.
Messi Continues His Journey with Inter Miami
Lionel Messi continues to lead Inter Miami's project in Major League Soccer, serving as one of the team's most important players thanks to his vast experience and ability to make a difference on the field.
The club's supporters are eagerly awaiting Messi's full return in the coming period, especially as the team aims to achieve strong results and compete for titles.
When Did Messi Play in the Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew Match?
Lionel Messi came on as a substitute starting in the 53rd minute of the match.
Did Messi Score Against Columbus Crew?
No, Messi did not score or provide an assist during the match.
What Was the Result of the Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew Match?
The match ended in a 2-2 draw between the two teams.
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