Lionel Messi did not participate in the Inter Miami’s 2-1 defeat against Monterrey for the first game of the Concachampions quarter-finals. However, according to journalist Fernando Schwartz, from Fox Sports from Mexico, Messi, Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba and ‘Tata’ Martino got into a fight with referee Walter Lopez, in the locker room at Chase Stadium, home of the Florida team.
Inter Miami players did not agree with a series of decisions made by the referees. Among them, the expulsion of player David Ruiz, in the 20th minute of the complementary stage, at a time when the team was still winning 1-0. The equalizer came minutes later, in the 24th minute, and the turning point occurred in the 44th minute.
Although none of those allegedly involved have commented on the controversy, several journalists linked to Mexican football confirmed that the confusion actually happened.
The match ends.#MIAvMTY pic.twitter.com/q5f6AX3hH9
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) April 4, 2024
Messi was not part of the squad in the duel due to injury, however he was present in the stands and, after the match, went to the dressing room with the rest of the team, precisely at the moment they met with the referee, when it was said that everything started.
According to Fernando, the Inter Miami squad leaders went to the locker room and also discussed with Monterrey coach Tano Ortiz. One of the main factors that may have fueled the alleged discussion were the words of the Mexican team’s coach in an interview before the duel, indicating that the referee could help Messi’s team. “Everything that surrounds Messi can lead to sporting and non-sporting decisions.”
The return match will be next Wednesday (10). This time, at Estadio BBVA, home of Monterrey. Inter Miami, to advance to the semifinals, will have to reverse the setback in the first leg.
Source: Gazetaesportiva
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