Messi creates both Miami goals in 2-2 draw with Atlanta

Lionel Messi scored both goals for Inter Miami in their 2-2 draw against Atlanta United on Saturday, marking his first match since announcing his retirement from international football. Thunderstorms and lightning caused a 90-minute delay to the match's start. Messi, Argentina's all-time leading goalscorer and most-capped player, was instrumental in both Inter Miami goals.

In the 32nd minute, Brazil's Casemiro headed in a corner provided by Messi. Atlanta equalized three minutes later when former Newcastle forward Miguel Almiron found the net with a low shot. Miami took the lead in the second half when former Liverpool and Barcelona star Luis Suarez scored a measured finish on the cusp of halftime after a move down the left started by Messi.

However, the match ended in a draw after Swiss striker Breel Embolo scored an 87th-minute penalty for Atlanta.