Lionel Messi assisted on both Inter Miami goals, including the winner in second-half stoppage time, as the Herons defeated Atlas 2-1 on Wednesday in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., during a group-stage opener in the Leagues Cup.

Lionel Messi said he struggled to find rhythm in the first half against Atlas on Wednesday night at Chase Stadium before setting up two second-half goals -- including a late winner -- in a 2-1 victory to kick off Inter Miami CF's Leagues Cup campaign.

Lionel Messi had two assists, including one in the final seconds of the match, to lift Inter Miami over Atlas 2-1 in their League Cup opener.