Messi returns to action for Miami after World Cup final heartbreak

Lionel Messi returned to competitive action for the first time since Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain, but his comeback ended in disappointment as Inter Miami were held to a 2-2 draw by the Columbus Crew in Major League Soccer today.

The Argentine captain came off the bench in the 53rd minute, making his first appearance since the World Cup final, while fellow Argentina international Rodrigo De Paul also marked his return by starting for Miami.

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Although Messi was unable to find the net, he came close on two occasions in the second half, sending both efforts wide, including a late opportunity in stoppage time.

Instead, it was Luis Suarez who once again led Miami's attack.

The Uruguayan striker continued his prolific form after the World Cup break, scoring for a third straight match before setting up Noah Allen's go-ahead goal in first-half stoppage time.

The match, which started 40 minutes late because of a weather delay, saw Suarez open the scoring in the 16th minute with his 10th goal of the season. After Yannick Bright won possession near midfield, Suarez spotted Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte off his line and lofted a high, looping effort into the net.

Columbus drew level in the 34th minute when Casemiro inadvertently turned Hugo Picard's cross into his own net while attempting to clear the danger.

Miami thought they had taken control just before the break when Allen headed home Suarez's cross. The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but a video assistant referee review overturned the decision, awarding Allen his first goal of the season.

However, the visitors had the final say.

Brais Mendez rescued a point for Columbus in the 84th minute with a free-kick that beat Miami goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo, denying the hosts all three points.

The draw left Inter Miami on 38 points from 18 matches, missing the chance to pull level with Nashville SC at the top of the MLS standings. Nashville remain two points clear on 40 points, while Columbus moved to 20 points as they continued their push for an Eastern Conference playoff place.