Lionel Messi returns for Inter Miami after extended post-World Cup break
Lionel Messi returned to Inter Miami after a two-week break following the FIFA World Cup final, coming off the bench in a 2-2 draw against Columbus Crew. The match was delayed 40 minutes due to weather, and Messi had several scoring chances but did not find the net. The result ended Miami's six-match winning streak.
Inter Miami drew 2-2 with Columbus Crew in a Major League Soccer fixture on Saturday, marking Lionel Messi's first appearance since the World Cup final. The Argentinian midfielder had been absent for two weeks following his team's loss in the championship match. Inclement weather in Miami caused a 40-minute delay before the match commenced.
Luis Suarez opened the scoring for the hosts in the 16th minute, extending his recent goal-scoring form. Columbus equalized through an own goal by Casemiro in the 34th minute. Suarez then assisted Noah Allen's header to give Miami a 2-1 halftime advantage. Brais Mendez, making his Columbus debut following his transfer from Real Sociedad, leveled the match with a free-kick goal in the 84th minute.
Messi entered the match during the second half and created several opportunities in the closing stages but was unable to convert any chances. The draw ended Miami's winning streak and left them in second place in the Eastern Conference standings. In other MLS action, Robert Lewandowski scored twice in his home debut for Chicago Fire, securing a 2-1 victory over Charlotte FC.
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