Lionel Messi scored twice on Wednesday to become the Leagues Cup’s all-time leading scorer as Inter Miami opened their 2026 campaign with a 4-2 victory over Atletico San Luis.
The Argentina captain, who inspired Miami to the inaugural Leagues Cup title in 2023 shortly after joining the MLS club, took his tally in the competition to a record 14 goals, surpassing every previous scorer in the tournament featuring Major League Soccer and Liga MX clubs.
Atletico San Luis made a dream start when David Rodriguez fired the visitors ahead in the fourth minute, but Messi restored parity just seven minutes later.
Inter Miami seized control before the interval, with Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia putting the hosts in front in the 26th minute before Messi grabbed his second of the night just before half-time.
Brazilian defender Micael added a fourth goal deep into first-half stoppage time to all but seal the result before Rafa Llorente scored a late consolation for Atletico San Luis.
Elsewhere in Wednesday’s Leagues Cup action, FC Dallas defeated Queretaro 2-0, while Club Leon edged Nashville SC 1-0.
AFP
