The MLS clash saw Lionel Messi crumple to the ground after a collision during the Concacaf Champions League meeting between David Beckham’s franchise and their Tennessee counterparts.
Lionel Messi’s Moment of Agony
Nashville surged ahead with a 2-0 lead, thanks to Jacob Shaffelburg’s double, leaving Inter Miami trailing, as reported by the Sun.
However, Messi, at 36, showcased his trademark prowess by bending home a left-footed shot from the edge of the box in the 52nd minute, injecting hope into the Miami camp.
As the team pushed for an equalizer, Messi found himself entangled with Lukas MacNaughton’s clearance, resulting in an inadvertent strike to Messi’s shin.
This sent him into a writhing heap on the ground, despite no foul being given. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was visibly in pain, seen slapping the floor in frustration.
Messi was shaken up after this play, but remained in the match. pic.twitter.com/NxeQMikbVU
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 8, 2024
Outrage from Fans
When the ball went out of play, Messi received treatment from medical staff before bravely continuing the game. Ultimately, Messi and his team salvaged a point, with Luis Suarez nodding in a late equalizer during stoppage time.
However, the lack of a foul call on MacNaughton’s clearance sparked outrage among fans, who took to social media to express their frustrations.
One fan hysterically exclaimed, “Players like this one should be banned for 6 months,” while another demanded, “Wtf ban the defender.”
A third fan criticized the referee, stating, “That referee is a clown. How tf is that not a red!!”
Meanwhile, another fan added a touch of humor, joking, “You can see the fear in number 3’s eyes. He knew he was about to be the most hated guy in football.”
Inter Miami’s next challenge awaits them on Sunday as they prepare to host Montreal Impact in the MLS.
