Headline: Major League Soccer Fines Lionel Messi After Altercation in Draw with Philadelphia Union
Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has received a fine from Major League Soccer (MLS) for slapping Quinn Sullivan during Wednesday’s thrilling 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union.
Social media footage captured the two players engaged in a verbal exchange near the halfway line toward the match’s end. Messi struck Sullivan at the back of the head, prompting an angry response from the Philadelphia player. Referee Filip Dujic intervened to de-escalate the situation.
Messi’s frustration appeared to stem from Sullivan elbowing him after he touched the ball. At that moment, the 2022 World Cup winner did not receive any on-field punishment, and the match continued without interruption. However, the MLS later announced that Messi has been fined for “violating the league’s policy regarding hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent.”
In a personal note, Messi scored his first goal in the match following the passing of his father after a prolonged illness. He put Miami ahead 2-1 in the 26th minute with a beautifully curled shot into the far corner. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in the Herons’ opening goal, providing an excellent assist to Luis Suarez, who then set up Daniel Pinter for a close-range finish.
Despite Messi’s contributions, Inter Miami had to settle for a draw, with goals from Indiana Vassilev and Neil Pierre in the 11th and 58th minutes, respectively, ensuring a share of the points.
Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer (MLS) for slapping Quinn Sullivan during Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Philadelphia Union.
Footage on social media showed the two players exchanging words near the halfway line towards the end of the match.
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Messi struck Sullivan around the back of the head, sparking an angry reaction from the Philadelphia star. Referee Filip Dujic then stepped in to prevent further escalation.
Messi appeared to be angry Sullivan had elbowed him after he played the ball.
The 2022 World Cup winner escaped punishment at the time and play was allowed to continue.
But the MLS have now announced Messi has been fined for ‘violating the league’s policy regarding hands to the face/head/neck of an opponent’.
Messi scored his first goal in Wednesday’s game since his father passed away following a long illness.
The Argentine put Miami 2-1 ahead in the 26th minute by curling a superb effort into the far corner.
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He was also involved in the Herons’ first goal as he found Luis Suarez with a brilliant ball, who set up Daniel Pinter for a close-range finish.
However, Miami were forced to share the spoils, with Indiana Vassilev and Neil Pierre scoring in the 11th and 58th minutes respectively.
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