Leo Messi returned four days after father’s dead but Inter Miami exit League Cup in Leon defeat
Lionel Messi returned to action four days after his father’s death, but Club León’s late comeback ended Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup campaign.
Lionel Messi returned to action for Inter Miami on Wednesday, just four days after the death of his father, Jorge Messi.
However, his comeback ended in disappointment as Club León secured a 3-2 victory at Nu Stadium to eliminate Miami from the Leagues Cup.
Messi started on the substitutes’ bench before entering at halftime. His return came after he travelled to Rosario, Argentina, following his father’s death at the age of 68. Messi had missed Miami’s previous match against Monterrey while mourning his loss.
Inter Miami took the lead through Dániel Pintér before León responded after the interval. Daniel Arcila levelled in the 50th minute, while Yannick Bright restored Miami’s advantage as the hosts briefly regained control.
Juan Domínguez equalised again for León before Arcila completed his brace in the 83rd minute. The late winner secured León’s third victory of the tournament and confirmed their progression to the knockout stage.
Messi also paid tribute to his father on social media, reflecting on Jorge’s influence throughout his career. He has also expressed uncertainty over how much longer he will continue playing professionally following the devastating loss.
