Messi returns to pitch as Inter Miami exits Leagues Cup; star posts tribute to late father

Lionel Messi made an emotional return to the football pitch for Inter Miami, just days after the death of his father, Jorge Messi. Despite the star player's presence, Inter Miami suffered a 2-3 defeat against Leon, resulting in their elimination from the Leagues Cup.

Messi, who had traveled to Rosario following his father's passing, was not in the starting lineup. He was introduced as a substitute in the second half, with Inter Miami leading 1-0 at the time. However, Leon managed to equalize and then score the winning goal in the 83rd minute, ending Inter Miami's tournament run.

Earlier in the day, Messi had posted a heartfelt tribute to his father on Instagram. He expressed his deep grief and struggle to accept the loss, reflecting on their close bond and his father's unwavering support throughout his career. Messi recalled his father's wish for him to play in the 2026 World Cup, a tournament he attended despite his worsening health.

Inter Miami's performance in the Leagues Cup was inconsistent, with only one win and two losses during the group stage. This follows their appearance in the finals last year, where they were defeated by Seattle Sounders FC. Messi's contributions in the previous year's World Cup were significant, scoring eight goals and providing four assists for Argentina, who were the defending champions but ultimately lost to Spain in the final.

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Dad, I still can't believe you're gone. It has not sunk in--or rather, I do not want it to sink in. It is so hard to imagine that I would not see you again, that we would not talk anymore. I know you were suffering and that this is for the best, but you left too soon. We still had so much left to enjoy together. You kept asking me to play in that last World Cup, but just days before it started, your condition took a turn for the worse. It was the first time you would not be at a tournament, but Mom kept telling me you would improve and be well enough to travel. I kept telling you we'd make it to the final so you could come.