Match ReportMirror FootballUnverified source· 13 Aug 2026

Messi returns days after father's death, leaving Casemiro in awe

Messi's surprise comeback just days after his father's passing stunned his new teammate Casemiro.

L. Messi

player

View profile →

Competition

Leagues Cup

Score

Inter Miami 2-3 Leon

Player

Lionel Messi

Club

Inter Miami

Role

Second-half substitute

What happened. Lionel Messi returned to competitive action as a second-half substitute in Inter Miami's 3-2 defeat to Leon, his first match since his father Jorge's death.

Casemiro praised Messi's commitment and called him an example.
Messi's father passed away on Saturday at age 68.
Messi is an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

“He's an example. I'm sure he's going through a very difficult time but his commitment, not only to the players but also the club was incredible.”
— Casemiro

Messi's emotional return highlights his dedication, with Casemiro calling him one of the best in history.

In this story

L. Messi

Casemiro