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Messi scores first goal after father's passing in draw

Lionel Messi scored his first goal since the death of his father Jorge, but Inter Miami ended in a 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union.

20 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Messi scores first goal after father's passing in draw — Archive photoPhoto: Bryan Berlin · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Lionel Messi scored his first goal on Wednesday since the passing of his father Jorge on August 7. This occurred during a match between Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union, which ended in a 2-2 draw.

Messi's goal was also his thirteenth of the season, bringing him close to Dallas player Petar Musa in the race for the Golden Shoe, an award he won last season.

The Argentine forward scored elegantly, and his performance was made even more emotional due to the recent event in his life. After the goal, Messi faced some frustrations, culminating in a tense finish to the match.

During this phase, two red cards were issued, highlighting the intensity of the encounter. These events ensured that the focus was not solely on Messi's achievement but also on the rough play that unfolded.

The match in Major League Soccer was significant for Inter Miami, which is trying to connect with the top of the league. Despite Messi's contribution, they could not secure the win and finished with a draw.

With his goal, Messi not only reached a personal milestone, but it also marks a moment in his career as he returns to the pitch in an emotional manner.

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