Lionel Messi in tribute to late father as he scores first goal since dad’s death in emotional moment

LIONEL MESSI paid an emotional tribute to his late father after finding the net in Inter Miami’s stalemate with Philadelphia Union last night. The Argentine legend’s dad, Jorge, passed away following a long illness earlier this month. Lionel Messi found the net for the first time since the passing of his dad Jorge Credit: Getty The Argentine pointed to the sky in an emotional tribute Credit: Getty And Messi, 39, hinted he could retire soon after struggling to come to terms with losing his father’s constant support. But the one-time World Cup winner was on target as Inter Miami notched a 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Dream Team is back, free, and there’s £100,000 up for grabs! Messi cut inside former Birmingham left-back Kai Wagner before firing past goalkeeper Andre Blake to put his side in front. The talisman was quickly mobbed by his team-mates, including summer arrival Casemiro. Messi then raised his hands and pointed to the sky in tribute to his dad Jorge after getting his name on the scoresheet for the first time since his sad death. But Inter Miami could not hold onto their lead and fell further behind in the race to finish top of MLS’ Eastern Conference. Indiana Vassilev gave Philadelphia the lead before Daniel Pinter and Messi turned the clash on its head with two goals in five minutes. Neil Pierre then bagged a share of the spoils for the hosts and both sides were reduced to ten men in stoppage time. Most read in Sport SUN VEGAS WELCOME OFFER: GET UP TO £100 BONUS Philadelphia midfielder Cavan Sullivan, who will join Manchester City next year, and Yannick Bright saw red. Inter Miami are now winless in their last four outings, allowing Nashville to pull seven points clear at the Eastern Conference summit. But, in a huge boost, Messi rediscovered his goalscoring form as the Florida-based franchise aim to defend their title. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner missed his THIRD penalty in a row during a 4-1 thrashing against Nashville on Sunday. Jorge Messi passed away earlier this month Credit: Getty He had a close bond with his son Credit: Alamy It came after Messi made unwanted history by becoming the first star to fail to convert two spot-kicks in the same World Cup by fluffing his lines against Egypt and Austria. Inter Miami will be looking to bounce back to winning ways when they host Toronto this weekend. Comment now