With two goals and one assist in a 4-0 victory over Atlanta United, Lionel Messi made his first start for Inter Miami.
Since joining the MLS franchise, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner has played alongside former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
In the eighth minute, Miami took a 1-0 lead as Busquets lofted a cross in for Messi, who missed his initial attempt but tipped back the rebound.
In the 22nd minute, Messi completed a counterattack to extend their lead. At the 3-0 mark of the Leagues Cup game, Robert Taylor.
After the intermission, Taylor scored the final goal for Miami with a helper from Messi, who was replaced in the 78th minute to a thunderous ovation from the home crowd.
Victor Ulloa entered the game six minutes after Busquets left.