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."

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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.