Lionel Messi knocked to the ground by a fan

In Puerto Rico, a friendly match between Inter Miami CF and Independiente del Valle turned chaotic when several fans rushed the pitch to get close to Lionel Messi, causing a spectacular fall of the Argentine star after a security guard’s forceful intervention.

Scenes of euphoria around Lionel Messi no longer surprise anyone. But what happened Saturday night in Puerto Rico nearly led to an incident. Against Independiente del Valle with Inter Miami CF (2-1 win), the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner saw the match tilt into confusion at the very end. At the 88th minute, several supporters managed to enter the pitch to approach their idol. L

One of them had time to immortalize the moment with a selfie, another hugged the Argentine star. It was then that a security officer, intervening with vigor, threw the fan to the ground… dragging Messi down with him. The sequence, widely shared on social media, quickly set the web alight. More fear than harm, however, for the Albiceleste captain, who got up with no apparent injuries.

A match already disrupted in the lead-up

The episode crowned an already eventful evening. Initially scheduled for February 13, the match had been postponed due to Messi’s injury. And at kickoff, a new setback delayed the proceedings: a jersey problem.

The two teams had taken the field wearing similar black jerseys, forcing the organizers to revise their plans. As a result, nearly an hour of delay before the 22 players could finally set foot on the pitch with distinct kits — not without some hesitations on the field. Between logistical chaos and a surge of supporters, the Puerto Rican evening did not lack twists. But once again, Messi’s draw stole the show.