Messi Back After Father’s Death, but Miami Lose to León

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Miami: Lionel Messi made an emotional return to football following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, but Inter Miami got eliminated from the Leagues Cup after a 3-2 loss to Mexico's Club Leon.

Messi returned to Florida after attending his father's funeral in Argentina and arrived at halftime to a standing ovation from the home crowd. His homecoming occurred just days after he paid tribute to his father, who served as his long-time representative.

Inter Miami took the lead early on, but were unable to maintain it as Club León made a comeback. Daniel Arcila scored twice, including the game-winning goal in the 83rd minute, leading León into the quarterfinals.

Miami's prospects of moving on in the tournament ended by the loss. Messi's comeback coincides with uncertainties about his future, since he voiced doubts about pursuing a career after the passing of his father.

Messi posted a heartfelt farewell to his late father, Jorge Messi in his social media account. In the post, he addressed how hard it was to deal with the loss and expressed uncertainty about carrying on with his football career, stating he wasn't sure how to go on without his father. Messi said that Jorge encouraged him to participate in the 2026 World Cup and expressed his wish for him to make it to the final game. He added that he wished to uphold his father's legacy by teaching in his kids the same morals that he had learned.