Messi fined after slapping MLS opponent during heated draw

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer for slapping Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan during Wednesday’s 2-2 draw at Subaru Park.

The 39-year-old was involved in a late confrontation with Sullivan after appearing to believe the Union player had elbowed him immediately after a challenge.

Messi involved in late confrontation

Messi reacted by striking Sullivan around the back of the head, prompting an angry response from the Philadelphia midfielder before the referee stepped in to prevent the situation from escalating.

MLS confirmed that Messi had been fined but did not disclose the amount of the punishment.

The Argentine was not the only Inter Miami player disciplined following the ill-tempered encounter. Teammate Ian Fray was also fined after grabbing Sullivan by the neck during another confrontation in the penalty area.

The match eventually descended into further chaos in stoppage time, with Miami’s Yannick Bright and Philadelphia’s Cavan Sullivan both receiving red cards.

However, Cavan Sullivan’s one-match suspension was later overturned following a review.

Messi scores after father’s death

Despite the controversy, Messi played a decisive role for Miami by scoring their second goal of the night.

It was his first goal since the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 following a long illness.

Messi had returned to Argentina to attend his father’s funeral before rejoining Inter Miami, where he continues to balance his football commitments with a difficult period away from the pitch.

Jorge Messi was also his son’s agent, and the Inter Miami captain paid tribute to him following his death while hinting that he may not have many years left in professional football.

The draw leaves Inter Miami second in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leaders Nashville.