PHILADELPHIA: Lionel Messi scored his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge Messi, as Inter Miami drew 2-2 with Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer on Wednesday. Messi struck in the 26th minute at Subaru Park, cutting inside before curling a left-footed effort into the corner to put Miami 2-1 ahead. His teammates immediately gathered around him in an emotional celebration. The Argentine forward also helped create Miami’s opening goal. His contribution gave the defending MLS Cup champions a strong start after a difficult run of results. Jorge Messi, Lionel’s father and longtime representative, died aged 68 in Rosario, Argentina, on August 8. Messi later paid an emotional tribute to him and spoke publicly about the difficulty of moving forward without his father. Oil prices: Strait of Hormuz tensions keep global energy markets on edge Messi’s goal carried particular significance because Jorge played a major role in his son’s career and business affairs from the early stages of his rise in football. The goal was Messi’s 13th of the MLS season, leaving him one behind Dallas striker Petar Musa in the Golden Boot race. Messi won the league’s scoring title last season. Despite Messi’s contribution, Miami could not hold on to the lead. Philadelphia fought back to secure a point, while the result ended Inter Miami’s three-game losing streak. For Messi, however, the night was about more than the result. His return to the scoresheet provided an emotional moment during a difficult period and allowed him to honour his father on the football field. Post navigation Kyiv attack: Russian missiles and drones kill 12 as air defences face pressure
