Lionel Messi returned to the pitch during one of the most difficult personal moments of his life, following the death of his father, Jorge Messi. The Argentine’s return was met with ovations in Miami, but it was not enough to prevent Inter Miami’s 3-2 defeat to León and elimination from the Leagues Cup.
Messi came off the bench after returning from Argentina
The Argentine star started the match on the bench and entered in the second half, in his first appearance after traveling to Argentina for his father’s funeral.
Jorge Messi died at the age of 68, forcing the Inter Miami captain to step away temporarily from his sporting commitments.
The stadium welcomed him with ovations
Messi’s entrance onto the field was accompanied by loud applause from fans in Miami.
Supporters had also chanted his name during the first half, with cries of “Leo, Leo,” as a sign of support for the footballer during this difficult personal period.
Inter Miami failed to protect their lead
The American side had taken the lead in the first half, but after the break the match changed rhythm and became more open.
Mexico’s León turned the game around and scored the decisive goal in the 85th minute, winning 3-2 and securing qualification for the quarter-finals.
The Leagues Cup ends early for Messi’s team
For Inter Miami, the competition ends with a record of one win and two defeats.
Messi played the entire second half and tried to influence the result, but this time his presence was not enough to change the outcome of the match.
After elimination from the Leagues Cup, Inter Miami’s main objective now remains the MLS campaign for the rest of the season.
Messi’s return brought emotion to the stands, but not the turnaround Inter Miami had hoped for.
On the first evening after his family loss, the Argentine returned to the field amid the support of the fans, while his team ended its run in the tournament.