A tense moment unfolded late in a friendly match between Inter Miami CF and Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico when Lionel Messi was briefly knocked to the ground following a pitch invasion.
The incident occurred around the 88th minute at Juan Ramón Loubriel Stadium in Bayamón. As the game was nearing its conclusion, a fan sprinted onto the field and approached Messi from behind near the centre circle.
The supporter wrapped an arm around Messi’s waist before he could react. According to reports, one fan attempted to take a selfie while another asked for an autograph. Amid the commotion, a third individual rushed in and grabbed the Argentine star from behind.
A security guard intervened quickly, but during the scuffle, both Messi and the intruder fell to the ground. Players and officials immediately turned their attention to the scene.
Fortunately, Messi appeared unharmed. He stood up within moments and calmly walked away as security personnel removed the fan. Play resumed shortly after.
Match highlights
The friendly, originally scheduled for February 13 but postponed due to Messi’s leg discomfort, saw Inter Miami secure a 2–1 victory. Santiago Morales opened the scoring in the 16th minute before Messi doubled the lead in the 70th. Independiente del Valle pulled one back, but Miami held firm.
Nearly 20,000 fans packed the stadium, applauding as Messi featured in the rescheduled fixture.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players. He is expected to lead Argentina at a potential sixth World Cup appearance later this year, though he has yet to officially confirm participation.