Lionel Messi scored twice in his first since game since his emotional Argentina farewell as Inter Miami ran out comfortable winners over DC United in the MLS.

The 39-year-old, who scored in his final appearance for his national team in Buenos Aires earlier this week, netted a second-half brace in his club side’s 4-0 win.

Veteran striker Luis Suarez was also at the double to lift Miami into second place in the Eastern Conference.

The former Liverpool and Barcelona forward opened the scoring inside three minutes, sweeping home from a cross after being left unmarked in the DC penalty area.

Suarez doubled the advantage seven minutes before half-time when he bundled home after Messi’s initial effort had been saved.

Messi makes his mark

The Uruguayan then turned provider after the break, clipping the ball to Messi who poked the ball past Sean Johnson in the DC goal to make it three.

Thirteen minutes later, Messi helped himself to the pick of the goals when, after receiving the ball on the edge of the penalty box, he danced past several DC defenders before calmly finishing into the corner of the net.

Messi’s goals take his MLS goals tally for the season to 23, as he hopes to claim what would be a third straight league MVP award.

Kily Gonzalaz, Miami’s coach, had earlier this week urged fans to appreciate the talents of his compatriot while they still can.

“He’ll be missed in that [Argentina] jersey, of course, but today we have him here, and we have to enjoy having him with us now,” Gonzalez said.