Lionel Messi has been accused of headbutting an opponent during Inter Miami’s FIFA Club World Cup opener against Egyptian giants Al-Ahly on Sunday. The Argentine superstar captained his side in the 0-0 draw in an even contest that saw 60,000 fans make their way to the Hard Rock Stadium in one of the few examples of a strong capacity for a group stage game thus far.
While it may not have been the result David Beckham and co were after, it does mean that the MLS club have managed to put points on the board ahead of what is expected to be a tougher game against Porto on Thursday. However, fans have suggested that Messi should be banned from the game after the veteran avoided a red card following an incident where he appeared to go nose to nose with an Al-Ahly defender.
Messi Caught ‘Headbutting’ Opponent
Tempers flared in the stalemate
As can be seen in the footage above, the incident took place during an Inter Miami corner, with Messi seen to be exchanging words with defender Yasser Ibrahim. After nodding in his direction, Messi walked with purpose up to the Egyptian international before the two came face to face.
GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Lionel Messi has been handed just four red cards in his career.
This has led to some fans criticising the special treatment the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is perceived to have received, with one noting on social media: “Messi is the most protected player of all time. No way any other person does that and gets away with it. Imagine that was the other way around.”
A second responded to the clip by saying: “Erm… this is usually a red card,” with a third adding: “He’s always doing aggressive stuff like this and getting away with it.”
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