Football fans have voiced their disapproval of a challenge Lionel Messi encountered during Inter Miami’s game against Nashville on Thursday.
The Argentine star has had an impressive beginning to his first complete season with the MLS side, scoring three goals in three league games before their initial CONCACAF Champions Cup last-16 match last night.
Nevertheless, the squad, under the ownership of David Beckham, had a rough start as they conceded two goals against Nashville before Messi reduced the deficit with a stunning goal, assisted by his former Barcelona colleague Luis Suarez.
While Men slept, World Cup winner, Lionel Messi, did this. pic.twitter.com/xbPnucJTNI
— Alabi (@the_Lawrenz) March 8, 2024
However, in the 78th minute, Lukas MacNaughton, a defender for Nashville, inadvertently struck Messi above the shin with his studs while attempting to clear the ball.
The Argentine, visibly angered by the tackle, writhed in pain on the ground as it appeared that his leg had buckled. Inter Miami’s medical staff attended to him promptly. Surprisingly, the referee opted not to book MacNaughton for the incident. Despite the discomfort, Messi continued playing for the remainder of the match. Ultimately, he had the last laugh when Suarez scored the equalizer in the fifth minute of added time.
As video footage of the challenge circulated on social media, fans criticized MacNaughton for his actions, while also praising Messi for his resilience in facing the physical challenges he often encounters.
One observer commented, “What is Messi made of? He’s faced some truly brutal tackles over the years.”
Another pondered, “I honestly don’t understand how he manages to endure those tackles?” A surprised fan added, “He bounced back after just two minutes and kept going. Truly GOAT material.”
Several expressed relief that Messi continued playing, fearing the harsh tackle could have prematurely ended the 36-year-old’s career.
Another fan joked, “This tackle on Lionel Messi would have been the end for ordinary players, but not for THE GOAT. On to the next.”
Conversely, one supporter described Messi as “a phenomenon,” while another implied, “He nearly put an end to football. We’d be left with just soccer.”
The 2-2 draw sets the stage for an exciting rematch in Florida next week as both teams compete for a spot in the quarter-finals of the tournament.
Before that, Inter Miami, currently topping the MLS Eastern Conference after three games, will face Montreal on Sunday.
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