De Paul's tribute sparks Inter Miami’s early edge despite Messi’s loss

On Saturday, Inter Miami found an emotional lift as Rodrigo De Paul opened the scoring against Monterrey, delivering a low, long‑range strike into the bottom‑left corner while the club mourned the death of Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, and coped with Messi’s absence.

De Paul’s low, long‑range strike found the bottom‑left corner, giving Inter Miami an early lead over Monterrey. The goal marked the visitors’ first score of the match.

Despite the early advantage, the contest with Monterrey stayed tightly fought. Both sides created further chances but the scoreline remained narrow.

Following the goal, the veteran midfielder sprinted to the sideline, tore off his shirt and exposed Messi’s iconic number ten underneath. The act was a clear homage to his close friend.

Messi, absent from the pitch, had previously helped De Paul reach the World Cup final as teammates with Argentina. Their shared history added emotional weight to the tribute.

The juxtaposition of a heartfelt tribute and an early lead highlights Inter Miami’s determination to honour their captain while competing without him. The team’s resolve will be tested as the match progresses.