The post-match drama surrounding Lionel Messi after Inter Miami's crushing 3-0 defeat to LAFC has finally been put to rest, with official statements confirming no wrongdoing from the Argentine superstar.
Key Points:
- Inter Miami suffered a significant 3-0 loss to LAFC at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
- A viral video showed Lionel Messi near a locker room, sparking controversy.
- MLS and PRO confirmed Messi did not enter any restricted or unauthorized areas.
- No formal report was filed against the Inter Miami captain.
Inter Miami's Rough Start & the Post-Match Buzz
Inter Miami, the defending MLS Cup champions, kicked off their season with a frustrating 3-0 loss to LAFC in front of over 75,000 fans at the LA Memorial Coliseum. LAFC asserted their dominance, with David Martinez scoring in the 38th minute, followed by Denis Bouanga in the 73rd, and Nathan Ordaz adding an exclamation point in the 94th minute.
Following the final whistle, a video quickly circulated showing Lionel Messi seemingly attempting to access a locker room door, briefly restrained by teammate Luis Suarez. This sparked immediate speculation about Messi's intentions and potential confrontation with match officials after the tough defeat.
Official Clarity: No Foul Play from Messi
Thankfully, MLS officials and the Professional Referee Organization (PRO) moved swiftly to clarify the situation, putting an end to the rumors. Both organizations confirmed that Messi did not enter any unauthorized locations, nor was the door he approached that of the referees' locker room. It was simply not a restricted area.
Chris Rivett, communications director for PRO, explicitly backed Messi, stating to ESPN, "After speaking with match officials, we can confirm he did not enter the premises." Inter Miami boss Tata Martino also mentioned he was unaware of the incident immediately after the game, focused instead on the match result.
The Verdict: No Report Filed
Crucially, MLS officials further confirmed that no formal report was filed against Lionel Messi by the referees. This official stance closes the chapter on what was a brief but intense moment of speculation, affirming that the football icon adhered to league policies despite the emotional post-match atmosphere.
What's Next for the Herons?
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will look to bounce back quickly from this season-opening setback. Their next challenge awaits on March 1 when they visit Orlando City for their second match of the MLS season. The team will be eager to put the defeat and the post-match drama behind them and secure their first points of the campaign.
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