Lionel Messi Scores First Goal Since Father’s Death as Inter Miami Draw with Philadelphia Union

Lionel Messi recorded a goal and an assist in Inter Miami's 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union in his first goal-scoring performance since his father's passing.

Lionel Messi scored his first goal since the death of his father earlier this month as Inter Miami secured a 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union on Wednesday at Subaru Park.

In the 26th minute, the 39-year-old shook off his marker and placed a left-footed shot into the net to give Miami a 2-1 lead in the first half. Messi also provided an assist on his team's opening goal on a hot and humid night in Pennsylvania. The result snapped a three-game losing streak for defending MLS Cup champions Miami.

The strike marked Messi's 13th goal of the season, placing him one goal behind Dallas striker Petar Musa in the pursuit of the MLS Golden Boot, an award Messi won last season.

The performance comes shortly after the passing of Messi's father and longtime representative, Jorge, who died at age 68 on August 8 in Rosario, Argentina. Last week, Messi paid an emotional tribute to his father, stating he did not know how to continue without him. Messi also captained Argentina to this year's World Cup final, where they lost to Spain.

Reporting sourced from The Hindu Sport. Photo courtesy The Hindu Sport.