✕

Messi scores twice to set Leagues Cup record in Miami victory

Football
By AFP | Aug 06, 2026
Inter Miami's Argentine forward Lionel Messi (C), San Luis' midfielder Oscar Macias (2nd-R) and Inter Miami's Italian midfielder Yannick Bright eye the ball during the Leagues Cup 2026 group-stage at Nu Stadium in Miami, Florida, on August 5, 2026. [CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP]

Lionel Messi scored twice on Wednesday to become the Leagues Cup's record goalscorer as Inter Miami beat Atletico San Luis 4-2 at home in the 2026 edition's opening group matches.

Messi, who helped Miami win the 2023 crown in his first weeks with the Florida club, took his tally in the competition for Major League Soccer and Mexican Liga MX sides to  a record 14 goals.

David Rodriguez gave San Luis the lead in the fourth minute but Messi equalised seven minutes later.

Venezuelan midfielder Telasco Segovia edged Miami ahead in the 26th minute.

Messi struck again just before half-time with Brazilian defender Micael making it 4-1 deep into first-half stoppage time.

Atletico's Rafa Llorente scored a second-half consolation.

Other Leagues Cup matches on Wednesday saw Dallas beat Queretaro 2-0 and Leon won 1-0 at Nashville.

Share this story
Kane tipped to beat Yamal, Mbappe to Ballon d'Or glory
Harry Kane is the favourite to become England's first Ballon d'Or winner in 25 years when the award is presented in London tonight
Kenya, Uganda use golf to woo tourists ahead of AFCON 2027
Kenya and Uganda are seeking to grow cross-border tourism through sporting events, with the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations offering an opportunity to attract visitors and boost business.
Manchester United crisis deepens as Carrick faces axe
Winless in eight games and hovering just above the Premier League relegation zone, struggling Man United are facing the prospect of yet another managerial change
Cricket Kenya parts ways with CEO, three other directors
Cricket Kenya (CK) has announced that it has parted ways with the association's Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ronald Bukusi.
Junior Starlets thump Samoa 4-0, make history with World Cup last-16 breakthrough
Kenya’s Junior Starlets make history by reaching the Round of 16 at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time after a commanding 4-0 victory over Samoa
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS