Messi returns as Inter Miami held by Columbus Crew

Lionel Messi returned to Major League Soccer action on Saturday after his World Cup campaign, coming off the bench as Inter Miami played out a 2-2 draw against Columbus Crew.

 

The Argentine captain made his first club appearance two weeks after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the World Cup final, replacing a teammate in the 53rd minute to loud cheers from supporters at Miami’s Nu Stadium.

 

Despite creating excitement with his return, Messi was unable to find the back of the net, sending two efforts wide.

 

Inter Miami took the lead in the 16th minute through Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, who continued his impressive form by scoring his seventh goal in his last four matches.

 

Columbus Crew drew level in the 34th minute after Miami midfielder Casemiro inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.

 

Suarez later provided the assist for Noah Allen to restore Miami’s advantage before halftime, with the defender heading home to make it 2-1.

 

However, Columbus salvaged a point six minutes from time when Spanish midfielder Brais Mendez, making his debut after joining from Real Sociedad, curled a free-kick into the net.

 

The draw ended Inter Miami’s six-match winning streak but kept them second in the MLS Eastern Conference behind leaders Nashville, who were also held to a 2-2 draw by DC United.

 

In the Western Conference, Los Angeles FC and Vancouver Whitecaps remained level at the top of the standings after playing out a 1-1 draw at BC Place.

 

South Korean forward Son Heung-min gave Los Angeles the lead in the 37th minute, extending his scoring streak to four goals in four MLS matches since the league resumed after the World Cup.

 

Vancouver equalised in the 76th minute through a penalty converted by German veteran Thomas Muller.

 

Son, who came under criticism following South Korea’s group-stage exit at the World Cup, was also named the MLS All-Star Game Most Valuable Player earlier in the week.