Lionel Messi returned to action for Inter Miami on Saturday in a 2-2 draw against Columbus Crew after missing the club’s previous matches following Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain.
The Argentine captain came on as a substitute in the 53rd minute and received a loud welcome from the home fans.
Messi nearly made an instant impact but fired his left-foot shot into the side netting from a tight angle.
He had another chance moments later after controlling a pass from Luis Suarez, but his effort went just wide.
Inter Miami had taken the lead through a long-range chipped goal from Luis Suarez, his seventh goal in four matches.
Columbus Crew equalised after Brazil midfielder Casemiro, who joined Inter Miami from Manchester United in July, accidentally turned the ball into his own net while trying to block a cross.
Noah Allen restored Inter Miami’s lead with a header before Brais Mendez scored from a free-kick in the 84th minute on his debut to make it 2-2.
Messi had two late chances to win the match but headed narrowly wide before sending another effort over the crossbar.
The draw saw Inter Miami and Columbus Crew share the points.
