Aug 19 (Reuters) – Lionel Messi scored his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge, earlier this month, giving Inter Miami a 2-1 halftime lead over the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday.
Messi’s father and longtime representative died aged 68 on August 8 in Rosario, Argentina.
In the 26th minute at Subaru Park, Messi shook off his marker and sent a left-footed shot into the net before being embraced by his teammates.
The 39-year-old paid an emotional tribute to Jorge Messi last week, describing him as a father, friend and representative, saying he did not know how to continue without him.
Defending MLS Cup champions Miami entered the match looking to halt a three-game losing streak, while Philadelphia were seeking a fifth consecutive victory.
The goal was Messi’s 13th of the season, putting him one behind Dallas striker Petar Musa in the race for the Golden Boot, which he won last season.
Messi, 39, also captained Argentina to this year’s World Cup final, where they lost to Spain.
(Reporting by Rory Carroll; Editing by Thomas Derpinghaus)
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