Rodrigo De Paul delivered a heartfelt homage to Lionel Messi during a touching scene in Inter Miami’s clash with Monterrey. With Messi sidelined due to the loss of his father, Jorge Messi, the Argentine midfielder crafted a unique way to honor his dear friend and fellow international.
De Paul broke the deadlock with a powerful low drive from range, then showcased Messi’s iconic number 10 jersey while celebrating. The act added a profound layer of sentiment to a challenging day for Inter Miami and the entire squad.
Rodrigo De Paul’s Touching Nod to Lionel Messi
De Paul gave Miami an ideal start by slotting a low effort into the bottom-left corner from long distance. Following the strike, the seasoned midfielder sprinted away from goal, pulling off his shirt to display the number 10 beneath.
The celebration stood as a clear salute to Messi, who was absent from Saturday’s encounter with Monterrey. De Paul and Messi have frequently lined up together as Argentina teammates, notably during their memorable journey to the World Cup final.
De Paul’s Memorable Goal and Gesture
The goal itself was a moment of brilliance, as De Paul unleashed a precise low shot from outside the area that nestled into the bottom-left corner.
By revealing Messi’s number 10 underneath his jersey, De Paul turned the celebration into something far more significant. It was a fitting tribute from a player who recently stood alongside Messi in the World Cup final while representing Argentina.