Lionel Messi returns to scoring form as Inter Miami draw with Philadelphia Union

Lionel Messi scored his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge Messi, as Inter Miami drew 2-2 with Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer in the early hours of Thursday.

The Argentina forward struck in the 26th minute at Subaru Park, finishing a run into the penalty area with a powerful left-footed shot that found the net. It was Messi’s first goal since Jorge Messi died on 8 August at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina.

Jorge Messi was his son’s agent for many years and played a significant role in the career and life of the former Argentina captain.

Although Messi found the target, he could not inspire Inter Miami to a return to winning ways. The draw ended a run of three successive defeats for the reigning MLS Cup holders, who had been looking to regain their balance in the competition.

Messi had already made an important contribution to Inter Miami’s opening goal. He produced a well-weighted pass for Luis Suarez, who delivered a headed cross towards his team-mate Pinter, allowing him to score.

The club celebrated the goal on social media with the caption: “PINTER gets us back in it! 😤👊”

Messi’s own effort came after he carried the ball into the penalty area before cutting inside and releasing a fierce strike with his left foot. Inter Miami also shared a clip of the moment with the message: “Engancha y patea, capitan. 😮‍💨🪄”

The 39-year-old has now scored 13 goals in the current MLS season. That leaves him one behind the league’s leading scorer, Petar Musa of Dallas, as he continues his challenge for the Golden Boot.

Messi won the MLS Golden Boot last season and remains in contention to retain the award despite his age and the difficult personal circumstances surrounding his return to action.

After his father’s death, Messi published an emotional message describing Jorge’s influence on both his football career and his wider life. He has since returned to the pitch and now ended his wait for a goal.

The result leaves Inter Miami without a victory in four matches, although the point brought their three-game losing streak to an end. Philadelphia Union were unable to hold on to the advantage needed to claim all three points, with Messi’s goal ensuring the visitors shared the points in a four-goal match.