Philadelphia Union vs Inter Miami- Messi’s Comeback Goal After Father’s Death

Key Stats and Takeaways

• Messi scored in the 26th minute at Subaru Park, his first goal since Jorge Messi’s passing.
• The strike was Messi’s 13th goal of the 2026 MLS season.
• He also assisted Miami’s opening goal in the same match.
• The 2-2 draw snapped Inter Miami’s three-game losing streak.
• Messi now sits one goal behind Petar Musa in the MLS Golden Boot race.

Football fans in India woke up to heartbreaking yet heartwarming news today. Lionel Messi finally found the back of the net again. And honestly, the timing could not have been more emotional.

Messi’s first goal after father’s death arrived on Wednesday night in Pennsylvania. Inter Miami battled Philadelphia Union to a thrilling 2-2 draw. For Indian fans who stayed up late or checked scores this morning, the moment felt bigger than football.

The Story Behind Messi’s First Goal After Father’s Death

Jorge Messi, Lionel’s father and longtime agent, passed away on August 8. He died at a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, aged 68. Consequently, Messi stepped away from the game to grieve with his family.

However, the Argentine superstar returned days later for Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup clash against Club León. Since then, he has carried a visible emotional weight on the pitch. Meanwhile, fans across the world, including here in India, sent messages of support.

Why This Goal Against Philadelphia Union Matters

In the 26th minute, Messi shook off his marker near Subaru Park’s box. Then, he curled a brilliant left-footed finish into the net. Teammates immediately surrounded him for an emotional embrace. Additionally, Messi set up Miami’s first goal earlier in the match.

The result ended a rough patch for the Herons. Miami had lost three straight matches before this draw. Therefore, this point against Philadelphia Union felt like a small turning point. Still, the club sits second in the Eastern Conference standings.

For context, Messi has now scored 13 goals this MLS season. That leaves him just one goal short of Dallas striker Petar Musa. Musa currently leads the race for the Golden Boot, which Messi won last season. So, the battle for top scorer is heating up again.

Indian football fans can catch MLS action live through Apple TV’s MLS coverage. Additionally, several sports platforms now cover Messi’s journey closely, given his massive following across India. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata have huge Messi fan clubs. Naturally, this emotional comeback goal trended quickly on Indian social media too.

Ultimately, this wasn’t just another MLS goal. It represented resilience during unimaginable grief. Messi’s tribute to his father last week revealed just how much he was struggling. He admitted he didn’t know how to continue without him. Yet, on the pitch, he found a small piece of comfort.

People Also Ask

Did Messi score after his father’s death?

Yes, Messi scored his first goal since his father’s passing in a 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union.

How did Jorge Messi die?

Jorge Messi died on August 8, 2026, at a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, at age 68.

What was the score of Philadelphia Union vs Inter Miami?

The match ended in a 2-2 draw at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania.

How many goals has Messi scored this MLS season?

Messi has scored 13 goals so far in the 2026 MLS season across all competitions.

Where can Indian fans watch MLS matches?

Indian fans can stream MLS matches live through the Apple TV app, which covers every fixture this season.