Lionel Messi Breaks Leagues Cup Goal Record with Brace as Inter Miami Beat San Luis 4-2
Lionel Messi returned to Inter Miami's starting XI in style, scoring twice and creating history as the club defeated San Luis 4-2 in the Leagues Cup. His brace made him the tournament's all-time leading scorer with 14 goals.
August 06, 2026: Lionel Messi marked his first start for Inter Miami since the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a brilliant performance against San Luis in the Leagues Cup. The Argentine captain scored twice and provided an assist as Inter Miami secured a 4-2 victory over the Mexican club. Messi had returned to action as a substitute against Columbus in Major League Soccer (MLS) a few days earlier, but he did not score in that 2-2 draw. This time, he made an immediate impact from the start and reminded everyone why he remains one of the world's best players.
With his two goals, Messi also created history by becoming the highest goalscorer in Leagues Cup history. He now has 14 goals in the competition since its new format was introduced in 2023, moving past Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga. The brace was also Messi's fifth in just 12 Leagues Cup appearances, highlighting his incredible record in the tournament.
Inter Miami Recover After Early Setback to Dominate San Luis
Inter Miami made the worst possible start after San Luis took the lead in the fourth minute through David Rodriguez. However, Messi responded almost immediately by scoring a stunning volley from Allen's cross in the 11th minute to level the match. It was his first goal for Inter Miami since returning from the 2026 World Cup and it completely changed the momentum of the game.
π¨ MESSI BRACE π₯
β TheRoverReport (@TheRoverReport1) August 6, 2026
LEO SCORES TWICE as Inter Miami beat San Luis 4-2 in Leagues Cup π₯
First goals since the World Cup π#Messi #InterMiami #LeaguesCup #GOAT #MLS #Football #Soccer pic.twitter.com/DeFNgthxE8
The hosts continued to dominate after the equaliser. Telasco Segovia scored in the 26th minute to put Miami ahead before Messi added his second goal with a composed finish inside the penalty area. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Mikael headed home from a Messi corner to extend the lead to 4-1. San Luis managed to pull one goal back through Rafael Llorente in the 51st minute, but they never looked capable of completing a comeback.
Heavy Rain Fails to Stop Miami's Winning Start
The second half was interrupted for more than 30 minutes because of heavy rain in Florida, forcing officials to temporarily suspend the match. After play resumed, San Luis pushed forward in search of more goals, but Inter Miami defended well and prevented the visitors from creating many clear chances. The home side remained in control and comfortably finished the match with a 4-2 victory.
The win gives Inter Miami a perfect start to their 2026 Leagues Cup campaign. Messi's outstanding display will give the team plenty of confidence as they prepare for another tough test against Mexican giants Monterrey on August 9. After his record-breaking performance, fans will be hoping the Argentine legend can continue his excellent form in the matches ahead.
