De Paul scores for Inter Miami, dedicates goal to absent Messi

Rodrigo De Paul scored a stunning goal for Inter Miami against Monterrey in the Leagues Cup, dedicating the moment to his absent teammate Lionel Messi. Messi missed the match as he traveled to Argentina to be with his family following the death of his father, Jorge, at age 68.

As soon as De Paul found the back of the net in the 32nd minute, he removed his jersey to reveal Messi's iconic No. 10 shirt underneath. He pointed to Messi's name and number on the back of his own jersey before his teammates embraced him. De Paul completed his tribute by forming a heart shape with his hands, sending a message of support across the distance during a painful time for the Inter Miami captain. The celebration earned De Paul a yellow card for removing his shirt.

Before the game even began, fans in the stands displayed their solidarity with Messi. A minute of silence was observed, accompanied by signs bearing messages of strength for the Argentine star. One prominent banner in the popular stands read "Fuerza, Leo" (Strength, Leo), alongside an image of Messi. Throughout the match, various sections of the stadium showed more signs offering comfort and support.

Messi's absence cast a somber mood over the match, overshadowing the game itself. His eleven teammates wore black armbands as a sign of respect and mourning. The match, until De Paul's goal, had been unremarkable, with few clear chances created by either side.

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Fuerza, Leo