Lionel Messi’s first goal for Inter Miami post-World Cup compared to Picasso painting
Lionel Messi scored his first goal for Inter Miami following the 2026 World Cup, drawing praise from his coach who compared the strike to a Picasso painting. The team continues its campaign in the Leagues Cup.
Why it matters
Messi's performance remains a significant driver of interest in Major League Soccer and global sports media.
Lionel Messi scored twice on his first start for Inter Miami following the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Messi's campaign ended in disappointment, but he still had a strong tournament and was able to help Argentina reach the final in the US.
He made a return to action at club level last week versus Columbus Crew , and most recently started as Inter Miami beat Atletico de San Luis in the Leagues Cup.
Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP via Getty Images
Miami went a goal down after just four minutes of action, but it was Messi who levelled the scores seven minutes later with a brilliant effort, which was his first post-World Cup.
The ball was crossed into the San Luis box from the left before the South American attacker guided it into the net without it touching the ground.
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