Lionel Messi’s Last-Minute Assist Helps Inter Miami Win Against Atlas In Leagues Cup News24 –

Lionel Messi made a stunning comeback for Inter Miami on Wednesday night, providing two decisive assists, including a last-gasp stoppage-time assist, to lead his team to a 2-1 Leagues Cup win against Mexico’s Atlas in their inaugural match. Returning to the starting lineup after missing the All-Star Game and receiving a one-game MLS suspension, Messi wasted no time putting his presence felt, combining gloriously with his teammates and turning the match around when it counted.

Match-Winner Confirmed by VAR

As the match was in the balance in the last minutes, Messi played a pinpoint pass to Marcelo Weigandt, who scored what appeared to be a dying-game winner in the 96th minute. Despite initially being flagged for offside, VAR check verified the goal, clinching the victory for Inter Miami in front of a noisy group of spectators.

Segovia Opens the Scoring

In the second half, Messi established his dominance in the game by setting up Telasco Segovia in the 58th minute. The assist gave Miami a 1-0 lead and marked the start of an eventful final half hour. Segovia made a calm finish, easing Miami’s increasing pressure after a tightly contested first period.

Atlas Respond But Fall Just Short

Atlas did not go quietly. Their equalizer in the 82nd minute came from Rivaldo Lozano, who took advantage of a loose ball within the box to bring the Mexican side at the same level. It seemed that the match would’ve ended in a draw but Messi’s last-minute assist saved the day for Inter Miami.

July Belongs to Messi

The Argentine maestro’s display sealed an impressive July, in which he scored eight goals and provided five assists in competitions. His consistent brilliance won him the MLS Player of the Month award, with Inter Miami holding a 4-1-1 record during the period.

First Half: Tight, Physical, and Goalless

The opening 45 minutes were intense and very physical, with neither side able to find the breakthrough. Inter Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo was the key, making three crucial stops including a sharp, sliding save on Eduardo Aguirre’s header. Luis Suárez nearly opened the scoring for the hosts with a strike that smacked into the crossbar just before the break.

De Paul Makes Club Debut

The game also marked the debut of Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s longtime Argentina teammate and a recent marquee signing for Miami.

A Strong Start to the Leagues Cup Campaign

With this hard-fought win, Inter Miami opened their Leagues Cup campaign with momentum and confidence. Messi’s late-game heroics once again proved he remains one of the game’s most decisive figures and with new reinforcements like De Paul arriving, Miami’s ambitions continue to rise.