Lionel Messi made his long-awaited return to action, but Inter Miami were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against the Columbus Crew after Brais Méndez marked his debut with a stunning late equaliser.
The entertaining MLS clash saw Miami surrender a first-half lead despite Luis Suárez’s influential display, while Casemiro endured a nightmare outing with an own goal that helped the Crew earn a valuable point.
Messi Returns After World Cup Campaign
After missing recent matches following his international commitments at the FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi started on the bench for Inter Miami. The Argentine superstar entered the contest in the 53rd minute and immediately sparked Miami’s attack, creating several dangerous opportunities.
Despite Messi’s impact, Columbus stood firm defensively and denied the visitors a winning goal in the closing stages.
Luis Suárez Inspires Miami In First Half
Veteran striker Luis Suárez turned back the clock with an outstanding first-half performance. The 39-year-old registered a goal and an assist as Inter Miami raced into the lead.
Suárez opened the scoring with a spectacular long-range effort after spotting Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte well off his line. His vision and execution caught the Crew defence by surprise, handing Miami an early advantage.
The Uruguayan later provided the assist for Miami’s second goal, helping his side establish a 2-1 lead before halftime.
Casemiro’s Own Goal Gives Columbus Hope
Columbus remained competitive throughout the contest despite recently losing midfielder Max Arfsten following his transfer to Middlesbrough FC.
Their comeback received a major boost when Casemiro inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, allowing the Crew to stay within touching distance and setting up a tense finish.
The own goal proved costly as Miami were unable to hold onto their advantage.
Brais Méndez Announces Himself With Stunning Debut Goal
The hosts found their hero in summer signing Brais Méndez, who delivered a memorable moment on his Columbus Crew debut.
In the 84th minute, the Spanish midfielder curled a brilliant free kick into the net to level the score at 2-2, capping an impressive first appearance and rescuing a point for the reigning MLS Cup champions.
Another new arrival, Lautaro Giaccone, also made his debut after coming on in the 72nd minute, adding fresh energy to Columbus during the closing stages.
Crew Match Miami Despite Key Departure
Even after Arfsten’s departure, Columbus matched Inter Miami for long stretches of the contest, particularly in midfield. The Crew competed evenly in possession and frustrated Miami’s attack, especially after Messi’s introduction.
Patrick Schulte also recovered well after his early mistake to help preserve the draw.
Inter Miami Forced To Share The Points
Inter Miami will be disappointed after leading in the first half and welcoming Messi back to the squad, but the Crew’s resilience ensured the points were shared.
While Suárez starred with a goal and an assist, Brais Méndez’s dream debut and late free kick ultimately stole the headlines, leaving both teams with a point in an entertaining MLS encounter.