A Dramatic Start to Inter Miami’s 2025 MLS Season
Inter Miami’s highly anticipated 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season opener against New York City FC (NYCFC) at Chase Stadium was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Lionel Messi at the forefront of the action. The Argentine sensation, known for his wizardry on the pitch, proved once again why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time. Despite being down a man for the majority of the game, Messi orchestrated a thrilling comeback, providing two assists that saw his team secure a 2-2 draw. The match, however, was marred by controversy and tension, making it a memorable but tumultuous start to the new season.
Controversial Red Card Shakes the Game Early
The game took an unexpected turn just 18 minutes into the first half when Tomas Aviles, who had just scored the opening goal for Inter Miami, was shown a red card. The decision to send Aviles off seemed harsh to many observers, and it immediately sparked frustration among the Miami players. Messi, always the team’s leader, was at the forefront of the protests. The Argentine star, known for his usually calm and composed demeanor, was visibly upset by the call. Inter Miami, now reduced to 10 men, faced a significant setback, but Messi’s leadership and technical prowess would soon come to the fore.
Questionable Calls Fuel Tension
As the game progressed, more questionable calls seemed to go against Inter Miami, further fueling the tension on the pitch. The team’s frustration was palpable, and it was evident in their gameplay and interactions with the officials. The adversities only seemed to bring out the best in Messi, who continued to create chances and maintain his composure under pressure. His two assists were a testament to his skill and determination, but the mounting frustrations with the officiating were beginning to take their toll on the entire team. The specter of injustice loomed large, and the atmosphere became increasingly charged.
Messi’s Emotional Outburst at Full Time
At the final whistle, the pent-up emotions of the Inter Miami players, particularly Messi, came to a boiling point. The Argentine legend, who had been the driving force behind his team’s performance, could no longer contain his frustration. In a moment that caught many by surprise, Messi grabbed a member of NYCFC’s coaching staff by the neck, an action that was both shocking and indicative of the high stakes and intense pressure of the game. His anger then turned toward the match referee, Alexis Da Silva. Messi’s usually calm demeanor gave way to a fiery exchange, a rare but revealing glimpse into the emotional side of the sport’s greatest talent. He was promptly shown a yellow card for dissent, but the damage to his emotional state had already been done.
The Lip Reader’s Revelation
The incident with the referee did not end there. According to TyC Sports, a lip reader analyzed the footage of the confrontation and revealed that Messi had called Da Silva a "coward." While the exact words beyond that remain a mystery, the video showed Messi covering his mouth to prevent further interpretation. This outburst was a significant departure from his usual behavior, highlighting the extent of his frustration. The episode has sparked discussions about the quality of officiating in the MLS and the pressure placed on players, especially those of Messi’s stature, to perform in high-stakes matches.
Looking Ahead to the CONCACAF Champions Cup
Despite the tumultuous end to the MLS season opener, Messi’s focus has quickly shifted to the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup clash against Sporting KC on Tuesday. The Argentine star was the hero in the first leg, scoring the only goal in freezing conditions to give Inter Miami a crucial 1-0 win. This victory not only boosted the team’s morale but also underscored Messi’s ability to rise to the occasion, even in challenging circumstances. The team will hope to build on this momentum and carry the spirit of their resilient performance into the next match. For Messi, it’s another opportunity to showcase his skills and lead his team to success, both on and off the pitch.
