Messi had been out of action since he was subbed off during the Champions Cup match against Nashville on 13 March, missing four Inter Miami games and two with Argentina during his period on the sidelines.

He returned to the field on Sunday (AEST) from the bench, scoring and equalising in the 58th minute after Rapids forward Rafael Navarro netted a penalty just before half-time.

His fourth goal in the MLS this season, Messi beat Rapids keeper Zack Steffen to the ball and took a low shot that struck the post before skittering across the goal, eventually crossing the line.

Just minutes later Messi was involved again, passing to David Ruiz, who sent it towards forward Leo Afonso for his first goal at the club, giving Inter Miami the lead.

Colorado’s Cole Bassett hit back to level the game in the 88th minute for the Rapids, driving the ball into the bottom right corner with his left foot.