Messi crowned 'best in the world' after stunning display in Miami win
Lionel Messi's first start for Inter Miami saw him score twice and register an assist in a 4-0 victory over Atlanta United in the Leagues Cup on Tuesday night.
The Argentine maestro followed up his sensational stoppage-time winner against Cruz Azul last Friday with a dazzling display in Florida.
His first goal came after just eight minutes, with the 36-year-old Barcelona legend finishing coolly on the rebound after being put through one-on-one by an exquisite through ball from fellow summer arrival Sergio Busquets.
Finland international Robert Taylor assisted Messi's second on the counter-attack on 22 minutes before the 28-year-old bagged himself a brace either side of half-time.
On his new team-mate's instant impact, Taylor said: "He is the best player in the world. So this is what he does.
"Everyone sees what he does. He can keep the ball — he can do everything on the ball — he can keep it in tight spaces, he makes the right decisions 100% of the time.
"Every time he has the ball, I’ll just try and get in behind, make a run for him, and most of the time he'll find one of our team-mates, for sure, making the run.
"So I think he brings so much quality into the team, so much."
Messi was subbed off in the 78th minute, shortly after Busquets — who also made his first start for the Major League Soccer outfit.
Clearly thrilled to be playing alongside the 2022 World Cup winner once more, the midfielder said: "So many years playing together, it's very easy to play with him.
"I'm so happy to be by his side."
On the team's overall performance, Miami boss Gerardo Martino added: "It was a good performance and I'm pleased we were able to make our fans happy.
"A very good game and we took another step in the right direction."
Victory booked Martino's men a place in the last 32 with ties set to be played between August 2-4.