Lionel Messi became the focus in an unexpected way in Inter Miami's 0-3 defeat to Los Angeles FC at the LA Coliseum, where more than 75,600 spectators created a passionate atmosphere.
After LAFC's third goal, an Argentine-shirted fan rushed down to the field, running straight towards Messi - a familiar image every time the 2022 World Cup champion appears. But this time, the music was not for him. Inter Miami is losing 0-3 in the opening match of the MLS 2026 season, and the Hollywood scenario for another World Cup has started with many thorns.
Before the match started, there were doubts about Messi's ability to play due to a hamstring injury sustained in February. At the age of 38, the fitness problem not only affects MLS but also directly affects Messi's biggest goal. That is the 2026 World Cup with the Argentine national team.
I want to be there... but must reach 100% fitness" - Messi shared in October last year. Coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that the Argentine superstar has been training normally throughout the week, but the performance on the field has not met expectations.
In the first 10 minutes, Messi's touch touches and handling lacked the usual accuracy. Passing ability gradually improved, even he created a few dangerous situations that could have been converted into assists. However, the biggest minus point is that he did not have a single shot on target.
Not only Messi, Inter Miami also had difficulty connecting their playing style, despite the addition of striker German Berterame. Meanwhile, LAFC took advantage of sharp opportunities. David Martinez opened the score after an assist from Son Heung-min - the Korean star who is aiming for another important World Cup in his career.
It is noteworthy that the number of LAFC fans wearing shirts printed with Son Heung-min's name completely overwhelmed the pink color of Inter Miami. Messi even had to hear boos when he fell in the penalty area at the end of the match without being penalized.
After the goals of Denis Bouanga and Nathan Ordaz sealed the score 3-0, Messi quickly changed shirts with Bouanga and left the field. A quiet image, completely opposite to the usual glory.
Mascherano admitted that the opponent deserved to win, but said that the score partly reflects harsher reality. He emphasized that the coaching staff needs to look at the performance instead of just focusing on the result.
For Messi, this is not yet a disastrous performance. He still has sharp passes and a few breakthrough dribbles. But "quite good" is not enough for the standards for a legend, especially during the World Cup year.
Argentina national team coach, Lionel Scaloni, once affirmed that the possibility of participating in the World Cup will be given by Messi himself. "6 months is a long time" - he said in December last year.
Now, only 4 months left. The clock is counting down, and all eyes continue to follow El Pulga.
