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 defining narrative of this match lies in the sheer warfare on the pitch.

De Paul, who joined Messi at Inter Miami from Atletico Madrid last year, also paid tribute to his relationship with his skipper, describing their friendship as one of the most important things in his life.

Lionel Messi is now a free man. He has been ever since he inspired Argentina to lift their third World Cup four years back in Qatar in 2022, completing the one missing piece of a career that already stood at the summit of football.

As ever, De Paul acted as both the engine and the emotional compass of Lionel Scaloni’s side, of which he is a cornerstone. His relentless intensity, tireless dedication and instinctive reading of the game embody many of the qualities that underpin La Albiceleste’s success.

The proof of Messi-De Paul’s telepathic alchemy manifested beautifully on Wednesday morning as the lights of Kansas City illuminated screens across the world.

Colourful confetti showered down on Lionel Messi as he ended his whirlwind four-city tour of India with a cameo at New Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium on Monday, where a near-capacity crowd shouted themselves hoarse during his half-hour appearance.

Messi notched a pair of assists as Inter Miami captured their first MLS Cup title with a 3-1 victory over the visiting Vancouver Whitecaps. Messi, who also was named the MLS Cup MVP, set up Rodrigo de Paul in the 71st minute and Tadeo Allende in second-half stoppage time.

Lionel Messi will miss Inter Miami's Major League soccer clash with Florida rivals Orlando on Sunday as he continues to recover from a "minor" muscle injury, coach Javier Mascherano said Saturday.