Messi scores emotional first goal since father's death

Lionel Messi etched a poignant moment into Inter Miami's match against the Philadelphia Union on Wednesday, netting his first goal since the tragic loss of his father, Jorge, earlier in the month. The 39-year-old Argentine soccer star scored the opening goal in the 26th minute at Subaru Park, breaking the deadlock as Inter claimed a 2-1 halftime lead.

Jorge Messi, a longtime representative and father to the soccer prodigy, passed away on August 8 at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina. In a touching tribute delivered last week, Messi described his father as a father, friend, and representative, expressing his inability to envision life without him.

Miami, the defending MLS Cup champions, entered the match with the aim of ending a three-game losing streak, while Philadelphia Union sought to secure their fifth consecutive victory. Messi's goal marked his 13th of the season, placing him just one behind Dallas striker Petar Musa in the race for the coveted Golden Boot award, which Messi secured last year.

Beyond his individual performance, Messi also led Argentina to the World Cup final this year, where the team fell to Spain.