In the 88th minute of the match at Juan Ramon Loubriel stadium, when the referee paused the game for a foul, several spectators unexpectedly ran onto the field to ask for photos with Messi.

Another fan then boldly rushed onto the field, embracing and tackling Messi. While posing a physical risk, the Argentine star remained calm, accepting the fan's excessive enthusiasm. After the unexpected spectators were escorted off, the referee allowed the game to resume.

Messi (number 10) was embraced and tackled by an overzealous fan during the Independiente del Valle - Inter Miami friendly on the evening of 26/2. Photo: MD

The friendly match, held in Puerto Rico on the evening of 26/2 (morning of 27/2 Hanoi time), was a rescheduled event. Originally set for 13/2, the game was postponed due to Messi's hamstring injury. Inter Miami and the organizers feared that playing without the Argentine star would disappoint fans and provoke negative reactions.

Witnessed by approximately 25,000 spectators, the match was lively. In the 16th minute, Santiago Morales broke through to open the scoring for Inter Miami. However, a minute later, Patrik Mercado finished a one-on-one chance past goalkeeper Rios Novo, equalizing for hosts Independiente del Valle.

Messi entered the game after halftime. Every touch from the 38-year-old forward excited the crowd. In the 70th minute, after Luis Suarez's cross struck a home player's hand, Messi converted a Panenka penalty, securing a 2-1 victory for Inter Miami.

Before arriving in Puerto Rico, Inter Miami lost 0-3 to Los Angeles FC in their MLS 2026 season opener on 21/2. On 1/3, they will play their second-round match against Orlando City.

Thanh Quy