Miami, Aug. 2 -- Lionel Messi returned to action following Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain, coming on as a substitute for Inter Miami in a 2-2 draw with Columbus Crew as team-mate Casemiro scored an own goal.
Messi had not played competitively since captaining his country in their 1-0 loss on July 19. The 39-year-old scored eight goals and registered four assists during the tournament.
The forward was given a huge ovation by the Inter Miami home fans when he came on in the 53rd minute as his side led the Major League Soccer match 2-1 on Saturday, according to BBC Sports.
He immediately had a chance but, from an acute angle, fired a left-foot shot into the side-netting.
Another opportunity quickly came Messi's way but, after ...