Did Lionel Messi Abuse Referee After Inter Miami's Draw With Charlotte?

Lionel Messi was left fuming after Inter Miami were denied a penalty in the dying moments of the Major League Soccer (MLS) game against Charlotte on Sunday (September 29). Messi was seen engaging in an animated chat with the referee and ended up being shown a yellow card.

As per a report by Mundo Deportivo, the Argentine superstar allegedly called the on-field official “a mean-spirited son of a b****,” during the heated argument.

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The scoreline was 1-1 when the controversial incident unfolded at the Chase Stadium. Charlotte took the lead early in the second half while Messi scored the equaliser for Inter Miami merely ten minutes later.

A few moments before the final whistle, Messi lofted the ball into the opposition box, targeting Jordi Alba. With a swift header, the Spanish full-back passed the ball to Luis Suarez. The former Barcelona striker, however, failed to capitalise on the opportunity. He attempted a volley from close range and while doing so, he collided with Charlotte goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina.

As soon as Suarez fell to the ground, his teammates appealed for a penalty, but the referee refused.

After the match, Messi was seen debating with the team of officials in the middle of the field.

Messi scored a stunning long-ranger in the away clash against Charlotte. He received a pass at the edge of the penalty area and dribbled past one defender before unleashing his iconic left-footed shot.

Kahlina jumped on his right but was unable to stop the ball from entering the net from the bottom corner.

After scoring the equaliser, Messi pulled out an Iron Man-like celebration. He stretched his arms vertically and tried to imitate the take-off gesture of the Marvel superhero.

Despite the draw with Charlotte, Inter Miami remain hopeful about winning the Supporters’ Sheild this season.

The Herons are currently seven points clear of Western Conference leaders LA Galaxy (58 points). They will face Columbus in their next MLS fixture on October 3.