Messi plays half-time in Inter Miami's ongoing loss to Leon
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 13, 2026, 7:17 AM
Last updated Aug 13, 2026
Lionel Messi made an emotional return for Inter Miami in their Leagues Cup match against Leon on August 12, 2026, after attending his father's funeral. Messi, who hinted at retirement earlier that day, came on at half-time with Miami leading 1-0. However, Leon rallied back with two goals from Daniel Arcila, shifting the score to 3-2, knocking Miami out of the tournament. This marks Miami's first early elimination since the expanded format began in 2023, following their previous title in the same tournament.
- •Messi returned to Miami after his father's death.
- •Miami led 1-0 before Leon came back to win 3-2.
- •The defeat eliminates Miami from the Leagues Cup.
- •Messi expressed doubts about continuing his playing career.
- 7:17 AMYahoo Sports — Messi plays in Inter Miami defeat by Leon only hours after retirement hint
"Argentina star Lionel Messi hinted at retirement on Wednesday before featuring in Inter Miami’s defeat by Leon.
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