Miami: Lionel Messi provided a crucial assist in Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw with Atlanta United in Major League Soccer in Florida, marking the Argentine star’s first appearance since retiring from international football last week.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Messi, who captained Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup and to a runner-up finish in the 2026 edition, started for Inter Miami in a match delayed by more than 90 minutes due to heavy rain and lightning.

The 39-year-old delivered a powerful corner kick that midfielder Casemiro headed past Atlanta goalkeeper Lucas Hoyos to give Miami the lead in the 32nd minute. However, Miami’s lead lasted only three minutes as Casemiro slipped while dealing with a cross that rebounded off his goalkeeper Dean St. Clair, allowing Atlanta’s Miguel Almiron to tap it in and level the score.

Luis Suarez restored Miami’s lead just before halftime, but Breel Embolo converted an 87th-minute penalty to earn Atlanta a point. Messi, who scored four goals and provided an assist in last week’s 7-1 thrashing of Montreal, leads the MLS scoring charts with 18 goals this season.