Lionel Messi played a role in both goals as he assisted Inter Miami in securing victory against Real Salt Lake in Major League Soccer’s season opener on Wednesday.
Argentina forward Messi set up Robert Taylor for the first goal, with the midfielder’s first-half shot finding its way past visiting keeper Zac MacMath.
Messi, aged 36, also contributed to Miami’s late second goal, which was scored by Diego Gomez.
He showcased excellent teamwork with former Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez, who provided an assist on his MLS debut.
“He looked loose, fine and showed a lot of speed,” Miami coach Gerardo Martino said of Messi’s performance.
The 2022 World Cup champion was absent for the latter part of last season with an injury while playing for David Beckham’s MLS franchise.
Earlier this week, Messi published a video to explain his absence from a friendly match in Hong Kong on 5 February, following criticism from Chinese fans.