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Lionel Messi returned to action for the first time since the 2026 World Cup final as a substitute, helping Inter Miami draw 2-2 with Columbus Crew. Robert Lewandowski scored twice in his home debut for Chicago Fire in a 2-1 win over Charlotte FC.
Lionel Messi asked to be substituted in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami's 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union in MLS, sparking fears of a hamstring injury just three weeks before Argentina defends its World Cup title. Coach Guillermo Hoyos called the substitution a precaution due to fatigue, but Messi's early exit and direct walk to the locker room raised concerns.
Lionel Messi scored twice and set up another goal as Inter Miami came from behind to beat Cincinnati 5-3, recording their fifth consecutive MLS away win. The victory extended Miami's winning streak to seven matches across all competitions.
Lionel Messi's base salary in MLS has doubled to $25 million per year, keeping him as the league's top earner — more than double Son Heung-min's $10.36 million base. The figures, released by the MLS Players Association, reflect Messi's contract extension through 2028 with Inter Miami.
Thirty-two years after its first World Cup as host in 1994, U.S. soccer has undergone a dramatic transformation—from no professional league and a team of amateurs to a thriving 30-team MLS, modern stadiums, and surging fan interest. The upcoming 2026 World Cup will showcase a vastly changed landscape, with record ticket demand and a sport now firmly part of American culture.
