Lionel Messi Punished by MLS for Actions During Inter Miami Match
Summary
Lionel Messi was fined by Major League Soccer (MLS) for lightly slapping an opponent's neck during a match between Inter Miami and the Philadelphia Union. The game ended in a 2-2 tie, with Messi scoring his 13th goal of the season.Key Facts
- Messi lightly slapped Philadelphia midfielder Quinn Sullivan on the back of his neck during the match.
- The incident caused a heated exchange, but the referee intervened before it escalated.
- MLS fined Messi an undisclosed amount for violating rules about using hands on an opponent's face, head, or neck.
- Another player, Ian Fray, also received a fine, while Philadelphia’s Cavan Sullivan’s ban was canceled.
- Messi scored his 13th goal of the MLS season in this game, which ended 2-2.
- Messi rejoined Inter Miami on August 2 after playing in the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup.
- Messi’s father passed away on August 8; the goal against Philadelphia was Messi’s first since then.
- Inter Miami is currently second in the MLS Eastern Conference and will next play Toronto FC.
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