MLS Rules Allow Lionel Messi to Play Despite Yellow Card Count
In a surprising turn of events, Lionel Messi will participate in Inter Miami’s upcoming match against the New England Revolution, contradicting expectations of a suspension. The star player, known for his exceptional skills on the field, benefited from an MLS rule that recognizes “good behavior,” allowing him to take the field on Matchday 33.
Messi, who received his fifth yellow card of the season recently, was thought to face a suspension. However, a rule that has been in place since 2007 provided an unexpected opportunity for him.
Why Will Lionel Messi Play for Inter Miami Despite Having Five Yellow Cards in MLS?
The Argentine forward was cautioned during matches against the Colorado Rapids, Orlando City, Nashville SC, Atlanta United, and most recently, FC Cincinnati. The MLS rules include a “good behavior incentive,” which states that players can reduce their yellow card tally under certain conditions.
According to the rulebook, “A player will automatically reduce his accumulated yellow card total by one each time he participates in five consecutive matches without receiving a yellow card, a red card, or an additional disciplinary sanction in those matches.” Messi has managed to have two stretches of five matches without receiving any additional cautions, resulting in a total of only three yellow cards, including the one from last Wednesday.
This suggests that the MLS disciplinary committee did not make a preferential decision for Messi; rather, he was treated like any other player under the guidelines of the league.
When Does Inter Miami vs. New England Revolution Play and at What Time?
Inter Miami is slated to face the New England Revolution on Sunday, October 31, with the match set to commence at 5 p.m. PT, 8 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium.
The team has had a mixed record in their recent matches, securing three victories out of their last five games. Their latest encounter ended in a 2-2 draw against Cincinnati, following a 2-0 loss to the New York Red Bulls. Prior to that, Miami claimed a 3-1 victory against Atlanta United on October 17, won 2-0 against New York City FC on October 14, and delivered a 4-0 win over D.C. United on October 10.
As the leading scorer for Inter Miami, Lionel Messi currently tops the charts in both goals and assists within the MLS. He has recorded 25 goals and 12 assists this season. Luis Suárez follows with 16 goals, while Germán Berterame holds the third position with nine goals. In terms of assists, Rodrigo de Paul is in second place with 10, and Telasco Segovia ranks third with eight.
