Lionel Messi Returns to MLS Action as Inter Miami Draws 2-2 with Columbus Crew

Lionel Messi made his return to Major League Soccer action on Saturday, August 1st, coming on as a second-half substitute for Inter Miami in their 2-2 draw against Columbus Crew. This marked Messi's first competitive appearance since captaining Argentina in their World Cup final loss on July 19th. Despite entering the match in the 53rd minute, Messi was unable to score, though teammate Luis Suarez netted his seventh goal in four games. Brazil midfielder Casemiro, making his debut for Inter Miami, inadvertently scored an own goal, while Brais Mendez equalized for Columbus with an 84th-minute free-kick.