FORT LAUDERDALE — The Columbus Crew twice erased one-goal deficits Saturday night, earning a 2-2 draw against Inter Miami CF in a matchup that featured the return of Lionel Messi to MLS action.
Making his debut for Columbus, midfielder Brais Méndez delivered the equalizer in the 84th minute with a curling free kick from just outside the penalty area, securing a point for the Crew in front of a sellout crowd at Chase Stadium.
Inter Miami struck first in the 15th minute when Luis Suárez capitalized on a turnover and lofted a long-range shot over goalkeeper Patrick Schulte to give the home side a 1-0 advantage. Columbus responded less than 20 minutes later when a dangerous cross into the penalty area deflected off new Miami midfielder Casemiro and into his own net, leveling the match at 1-1.
The hosts regained the lead just before halftime. Noah Allen headed home a cross in first-half stoppage time, sending Inter Miami into the break with a 2-1 advantage despite Columbus creating several quality scoring chances of its own.
Messi entered the match early in the second half for his first MLS appearance since returning from international duty and immediately added another dimension to Miami's attack. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner generated several dangerous opportunities, but Schulte came up with key saves to keep the Crew within striking distance.
Columbus found its breakthrough six minutes from full time.
After Casemiro committed a foul just outside the penalty area, Méndez stepped over the free kick and bent a left-footed effort around the wall and inside the post for his first goal with the Crew. The strike capped an impressive debut for the Spanish midfielder and preserved a deserved point for Columbus after a strong overall performance.
The Crew finished with 13 shots and matched Inter Miami throughout the evening despite playing on the road. Against one of the Eastern Conference's top clubs, Columbus demonstrated resilience by responding both times it fell behind, extending its positive run of form entering Leagues Cup play.
What's Next: MLS pauses for Leagues Cup as the Crew open tournament play Wednesday against Atlas FC at Lower.com Field. Columbus will look to carry the momentum from Saturday's comeback into the international competition.