Lionel Messi Tackled by Fans During Wild Inter Miami Moment

San Juan, Puerto Rico — What was meant to be a celebratory curtain-call for Lionel Messi turned into an 88th-minute scramble when a pitch-invading fan wrapped the star in a bear-hug and sent both crashing to the turf, capping a night already riddled with oddities at Inter Miami’s friendly against Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle.

Messi, introduced at halftime alongside Miami’s regular starters, had just settled the contest in the 70th minute, calmly converting a penalty for the eventual 2-1 victory. Twenty minutes later, three spectators burst from the stands. One intruder ripped off his shirt, slipped, rose again and darted past the Argentine; the other two headed straight for their idol. One handed Messi a marker and left with an autographed shirt; the other snapped a quick selfie, the superstar indulging the moment with trademark composure.

The scene soured when the shirtless fan re-emerged behind Messi, locked him in an unsolicited embrace and refused to let go. Security officers arrived seconds later, tackled the trespasser and, because the fan still clung to the forward, dragged Messi to the ground. He sprang up unhurt but clearly irritated, brushing himself off while officials restored order.

The chaotic finish book-ended a match that began in confusion. Both clubs arrived in identical black kits, forcing a one-hour delay before officials allowed the game to proceed despite the clash. The contest itself had already been rescheduled once; originally set for Feb. 13, it was pushed back after Messi sustained a hamstring strain in a Feb. 7 preseason meeting with Barcelona SC. The 36-year-old recorded a video apology to Puerto Rican supporters, citing the injury and promising to visit soon.

On Wednesday he made good on that pledge, delivering the winning goal and surviving an unwanted hug to leave the island with both a victory and a story he will hope not to repeat. Inter Miami now turn their attention to Saturday’s MLS opener against Orlando City at Inter & Co Stadium, where the reigning champions begin defense of their 2026 title.