Casemiro own goal spoils Messi’s Inter Miami return after World Cup

Lionel Messi made his return for Inter Miami on Saturday, but the Major League Soccer side were held to a 2-2 draw by Columbus Crew after an own goal from new signing Casemiro.

The Argentine captain was making his first appearance since Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on July 19. Messi had enjoyed an impressive tournament, contributing eight goals and four assists before returning to club duty.

Inter Miami supporters gave the 39-year-old a standing ovation when he came off the bench in the 53rd minute with his side leading 2-1.

Casemiro scores unfortunate own goal

Inter Miami opened the scoring through Luis Suarez, who produced an audacious long-range chip to register his seventh goal in four matches.

However, Columbus Crew drew level after Brazilian midfielder Casemiro inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net while attempting to block a dangerous cross. The former Manchester United midfielder joined Inter Miami in July.

Noah Allen restored Miami’s advantage with a headed finish before Columbus struck back again late in the contest.

Messi denied winning return

Spanish midfielder Brais Mendez marked his debut for Columbus Crew by curling home an 84th-minute free-kick to secure a share of the points.

Messi nearly inspired a dramatic victory in stoppage time but was denied on two occasions. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner first sent a looping header narrowly wide before firing another effort over the crossbar.

Despite the draw, Messi showed glimpses of his quality during his second-half cameo, creating problems for the Columbus defence after replacing a teammate early in the second half.