De Paul dedicates goal to Messi after father's death

Rodrigo De Paul scored for Inter Miami against Monterrey in the Leagues Cup and dedicated the goal to Lionel Messi, who was absent after traveling to Argentina following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, at age 68. Source: La Vanguardia De Paul opened the scoring with a low shot from outside the area, then removed his shirt to reveal a tribute shirt with Messi's name and number 10. Source: La Voz The gesture was met with support from the crowd, including banners reading "Sonreímos contigo y lloramos contigo. Messi, nunca caminarás solo." Source: La Vanguardia

The match

Despite De Paul's goal, Inter Miami lost 1-2 to Monterrey. Monterrey came back with goals from Hugo Cuypers and Diego Rossi, the latter in the 90th minute, complicating Inter Miami's chances of advancing in the Leagues Cup. Source: La Vanguardia The team, coached by Javier Mascherano and champions in 2023, must beat León in their final group match and hope for other results to reach the quarterfinals. Source: La Vanguardia

The tribute

De Paul and Messi have a close friendship forged during their time together with the Argentina national team, including their Copa América and 2022 World Cup campaigns. Source: La Vanguardia The tribute was widely covered, with both sources highlighting the emotional significance of the gesture. Source: La Voz