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Sports Illustrated
Sports Illustrated
Sport
Ben Steiner

Four Takeaways From Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Return in Dramatic Columbus Crew Clash

Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul were back in a match for the first time since losing the 2026 World Cup final with Argentina on Saturday night, both taking part in Inter Miami’s MLS regular season clash against Columbus Crew at Miami’s new Nu Stadium.

After a lengthy weather delay, De Paul took to the pitch as part of the starting lineup, while Messi came off the bench. Both had some stellar moments, but were ultimately unable to secure three points, as Columbus forced the Herons to a 2–2 draw, ending Miami’s club-record six-game win streak.

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