Lionel Messi was seen frustrated and walked off the pitch angrily after Inter Miami’s 2–2 draw with Palmeiras, even though the result sent Messi’s squad through the next round of knockout games. After swapping shirts with Palmeira’s teenage sensation Estevao Willian at the final whistle, the Argentine footballing legend made a quick exit to the tunnel, aggressively shaking his head in disapproval. For many observers, it was less about the result and more about the quality of performance.
Inter Miami booked an intense draw with Palmerias on June 23 in what turned out to be a nail-biting game towards the end. Despite Inter Miami starting the game with a powerful, aggressive attack, with their star striker, Luis Suarez, claiming an impressive goal and an assist. The Serie A side didn’t give up and managed to convert the game into an intense tie with their tremendous effort towards the end of the game.
Why was Messi frustrated?
The frustration seems to stem from Inter Miami’s inability to maintain their composure towards the later stretch of the game. Miami had been leading comfortably before conceding two quick goals within seven minutes, making the qualification far more stressful than it should have been for the club.
Messi’s reunion with PSG
Inter Miami’s inability to capitalise on their early lead and secure an easy win has placed them in the second spot for Group A. As a result, Inter Miami will now face Messi’s former club and the reigning UEFA Champions League winners, Paris Saint-Germain. In the next round fixtures, fans expect to witness a high-voltage game could see the World Cup-winning captain square off against his former club teammates in what promises to be a sensational game.
This next fixture would mark the first time Messi faces PSG since departing the Ligue 1 champions in 2023. While his time in Paris saw mixed reactions from fans and media alike, there is no denying the emotional weight that such a fixture carries—for Messi, for PSG, and global football audiences.
Inter Miami’s coaching staff and supporters will hope the team can regain focus and fix defensive lapses before their next game. For Messi, the chance to face PSG on a global stage might offer the perfect setting for both redemption and reflection, though the priority will remain on ensuring his current team steps up to the occasion.