Messi returns after a tragedy, his performance leaving fans heartbroken

Lionel Messi came back to action only a few days after his father's death and promptly left an impression on the game against Leon. Yet the numbers in the match revealed that the Argentine star hasn't completely found his familiar feel.

Lionel Messi surprised everyone by returning to play for Inter Miami in their clash against Leon in the Leagues Cup on the morning of August 13. After his father, Jorge Messi, passed away at age 68 on August 8 due to illness, the Argentine superstar had not trained in recent days and only returned to Miami after completing the funeral in his hometown of Rosario.

Before the match, Messi received encouragement from many figures in the football world after posting an emotional letter to his late father. Cristiano Ronaldo also sent a message: "Sending you a tight hug, and to your loved ones in this difficult time, Leo. Stay strong." Despite facing such significant emotional difficulties, Messi still decided to return to the field, and his performance showed notable signs.

Messi started the match on the bench and came on right at the beginning of the second half, replacing Daniel Pinter, who had opened the scoring for Inter Miami in the 42nd minute. The 39-year-old superstar needed about 20 minutes to find his rhythm before playing more freely. He had 5 shots, 3 of which were on target, along with 4 key passes that created chances for his teammates.

According to recorded statistics, Messi had an 81% pass accuracy and was rated 7.9 by SofaScore. However, he also lost possession 12 times, an astonishing number that shows his match feel and ball handling have not yet reached their usual level. These figures partly reflect a Messi who still contributes significantly on the offensive front, but has not been able to find his best form.

While Messi tried to integrate, Inter Miami continued to show problems in defense. Daniel Arcila equalized in the 50th minute before Yannick Bright put the home team ahead 2-1 in the 54th minute. Juan Pablo Dominguez helped Leon draw level at 2-2 in the 61st minute, then Arcila completed his double in the 85th minute, leading to Inter Miami's 2-3 defeat and early elimination from the Leagues Cup.

The defeat means Messi and Inter Miami are left with only the MLS Cup, Supporters' Shield, and the Campeones Cup against Cruz Azul on September 16. For now, Messi will have a chance to continue finding his rhythm when Inter Miami visits Nashville SC at 7:30 AM on August 16. The 7.9 rating performance shows he still made an impact, but clearly Messi needs more time after the major family tragedy.