Lionel Messi took the field for Inter Miami for the first time since formally retiring from international football — and made history in the process. The Argentine superstar recorded two assists in Miami’s match against Atlanta United, reaching a unique milestone in Major League Soccer (MLS). Though the home match ended in a 2-2 draw, late drama and a charged atmosphere in the stands gave the game a different complexion altogether.
Before kickoff in the match, played this morning Bangladesh time, a severe storm and lightning forced a mandatory 90-minute weather delay. But once play began, Messi was quickly back in his familiar rhythm. In the 32nd minute, Brazilian star Casemiro headed home a goal from Messi’s pinpoint corner kick. Shortly after, former Premier League star Miguel Almiron leveled the score for Atlanta. But right at the end of the first half, a brilliant finish from Luis Suarez put Miami back in front.
With this pair of assists, Messi’s total goal contributions this season reached exactly 30 — 18 goals and 12 assists. He became the first player in MLS history to record 30 or more goal contributions in three different seasons, surpassing heavyweight stars such as LAFC’s Denis Bouanga and Cincinnati’s Evander. This comes in the same year the World Cup-winning captain bid farewell to international football after a forgettable World Cup final in the Argentina jersey. His magic in club football, however, has not dimmed in the slightest.
Alongside the on-field action, the match also drew attention for tension in the stands. After Casemiro’s goal, Atlanta United supporters unveiled a mocking “Pessi” banner aimed at Messi, further charging the atmosphere in the stadium. In a tightly fought match, reigning MLS champions Miami ultimately could not leave the field with a win. In the 87th minute, Atlanta’s new Swiss striker Breel Embolo converted a penalty to level the score.
Tensions and arguments flared among players in stoppage time. Atlanta’s Matthew Edwards received a yellow card in the fifth minute of added time. In the end, Miami had to settle for a draw, making it harder for the Florida club to defend its MLS title. Messi’s side sit second with 43 points from 23 matches, 10 points behind leaders Nashville, who have played the same number of games.