Lionel Messi Shines in Inter Miami's 4-0 Triumph in Leagues Cup

 Lionel Messi Shines in Inter Miami's 4-0 Triumph in Leagues Cup

Lionel Messi Shines in Inter Miami's 4-0 Triumph in Leagues Cup(Image-Getty)

Lionel Messi showcased his brilliance once again as he scored two first-half goals and provided an assist in the second half, propelling Inter Miami to a commanding 4-0 win against Atlanta United in the Leagues Cup on Tuesday.

After delivering a dramatic game-winning goal off the bench during his debut on Friday, the Argentine World Cup champion wasted no time in his first start with the MLS side.

In the eighth minute, Messi received a beautiful lofting pass from former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets. Despite hitting the post initially, he followed up with a rebound to score, igniting the home crowd with approval.

In the 22nd minute, Messi slotted home his second goal, assisted by teammate Robert Taylor, who also secured a brace in the hot Miami weather.

Following his second goal, Messi pointed from the field at the team co-owner David Beckham, who was in attendance. The gesture brought a wide smile to Beckham's face, knowing he played a pivotal role in bringing Messi to the MLS despite a significant counter offer from Saudi Arabia.

Atlanta's best chance to score came from a late penalty kick by Thiago Almada, but Miami's goalkeeper, Drake Callender, read it perfectly, preserving the clean sheet.

When Messi was subbed out in the 78th minute, he shared a hug with fellow Argentinian Thiago Almada, and the two exchanged jerseys after the match.

Messi's phenomenal performance came after his match-winning debut against Cruz Azul on Friday, making a dream start in MLS for the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner and the architect of Argentina's World Cup victory last year.

With this victory, Miami secures the top spot in their group in the Leagues Cup tournament, a World Cup-style competition featuring all teams from MLS and Mexico's Liga MX.