VIDEO: Lionel Messi puts on playmaking clinic to create Inter Miami's dramatic late winning goal in Leagues Cup as sublime Luiz Suarez one-two leaves Atlas stunned

The Herons were on course for a frustrating 1-1 draw heading into the final moments of stoppage-time in their Leagues Cup opener with Mexican opposition. There was, however, to be a late twist in the tale.

Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi had already added another assist to his impressive tally when setting up Telasco Segovia for the opening goal of the game. He pulled another out of his locker as the clock ticked down.

In the 96th minute, Messi played a sublime one-two with fellow ex-Barcelona legend Luis Suarez and found himself through on goal. He was only seven yards out, but rather than shoot himself the Argentine GOAT squared for Weigandt to bundle into the empty net.

Said effort was enough to get Inter Miami over the line, with a positive start being made to their latest quest for major silverware. Messi has been in remarkable form for them of late, playing a part in 21 of their last 27 goals.

Messi had sat out Inter Miami’s last MLS fixture through suspension, but further underlined his importance to the collective cause when making a match-altering contribution against Atlas. Javier Mascherano’s side will be back in action on Saturday when facing Necaxa.