 "Lionel Messi in action during Inter Miami's pre-season exhibition match against Club America at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Reuters")
Argentina and Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi drew the ire of Mexican fans as well as former players for his controversial gesture during a pre-season game in Las Vegas on Saturday. The incident took place during the exhibition game between Inter Miami and the Mexico City-based Club America at the Allegiant Stadium, which ended in a 3-2 victory in penalties for the Herons after the two teams finished level on two goals each at the end of regulation time.
The incident took place during the 34th minute of the match when Messi scored the equaliser for the Inter Miami three minutes after Henry Martin put the away team in the lead. After being booed by Club America fans present at the venue, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward responded with a gesture comparing the number of World Cups won by Argentina (3) and Mexico (0).
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Messi was personally responsible for Argentina’s third title, which took place in Qatar in December 2022 after La Albiceleste defeated then-defending champions France 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw at the Lusail Stadium.
The legendary forward also gave the away fans a reminder of Argentina’s 2-0 victory Mexico in the World Cup, besides pointing to the name on the back of his shirt.
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The gesture enraged the visiting fans in Vegas and also blew up online, with the Mexican news outlets as well as ex-footballers and fans slamming the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner for his gesture, which they felt was excessive for a friendly game. On the other hand, Messi’s act was well-received back home in Argentina.
Among those joining the criticism of Messi was former Mexican international Adolfo Bautista. “I admired you as a player. But to mess with my country speaks to your lack of professionalism and education,” said the 45-year-old former attacking midfielder.
Inter Miami, the team that had won the Supporters’ Shield last season , will be playing several more pre-season fixtures after the match against Club America . Their tour includes fixtures against Peruvian champions Club Universitario de Deportes in Lima as well as against Sporting San Miguelito in Panama City and Club Deportivo Olimpia in San Pedro Sula, Honduras ahead of the 2025 season.