The opening match of the new Major League Soccer (MLS) season in the United States was marked by unexpected events and a heated confrontation involving one of the world's most famous athletes.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that Lionel Messi and his club, Inter Miami, suffered a heavy 0-3 defeat during their away match against Los Angeles. The home side delivered a composed performance, securing a dominant victory to start their season with confidence.
However, the post-match reaction of the Argentine star has become the primary subject of discussion. Cameras captured Messi expressing sharp dissatisfaction toward the officiating crew in the tunnel after the final whistle. Despite attempts by teammate Luis Suarez to calm him down, Messi reportedly used harsh language toward the referees. According to reports from "The Touchline," Messi told the officials:
"You always make senseless decisions and whistle for everything. You also need to learn to respect. You always judge us by different criteria."
While MLS management conducted a preliminary review of the incident, they announced that Messi did not violate specific league regulations and no disciplinary action would be taken. Following the match, Los Angeles head coach Mark dos Santos attributed their success to a simple tactical approach, stating that there was no secret other than maintaining a disciplined and tight defensive line to neutralize the Inter Miami attack.
The incident highlights the intense pressure and high expectations surrounding Inter Miami since the arrival of global icons like Messi and Suarez. Major League Soccer, which has seen a significant surge in international viewership and commercial interest since 2023, continues to grapple with the challenges of officiating high-profile matches involving world-class talent. This season opener serves as a reminder of the competitive parity within the league, where even star-studded rosters face rigorous challenges from well-organized domestic sides.
