Lionel Messi assists in first game since Argentina retirement as Miami held by Atlanta
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Lionel Messi provided an assist in his first game since stepping away from international soccer as Inter Miami drew 2-2 with Atlanta United on Sunday.
Messi, 39, started and captained Miami in a match delayed more than 90 minutes by heavy rain and lightning.
The Argentine curled in a corner that Casemiro headed past Atlanta goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos in the 32nd minute to put Miami ahead.
Atlanta equalized three minutes later when Miguel Almiron scored after Casemiro’s attempted block deflected off Miami goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair.
Luis Suarez restored Miami’s lead shortly before halftime, but Breel Embolo converted an 87th-minute penalty to earn Atlanta a point.
Messi entered the game after scoring four goals and providing an assist in Miami’s 7-1 victory over CF Montreal last weekend. He is tied for the MLS scoring lead with 18 goals this season.
Messi had previously expressed doubts about continuing his playing career following the death of his father, Jorge, on Aug. 8.
Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and a runner-up finish in 2026 before retiring from international duty earlier this week.
