Multiple spectators stormed the pitch late in Inter Miami CF’s exhibition match against Independiente del Valle on February 26 in Puerto Rico, and one fan even knocked down Lionel Messi during the chaos.
The disruption occurred in the 88th minute of Inter Miami’s 2–1 victory. Messi, who came on at halftime, had already made the decisive impact by converting a penalty in the 70th minute to seal the win.
Around 20 minutes after the goal, three spectators jumped from the stands and ran onto the field. One removed his shirt, stumbled, then got back up and sprinted across the pitch as security pursued him.
Two others made their way directly to Messi, one getting an autograph on his shirt while another snapped a selfie before security personnel stepped in to restore order.
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The shirtless fan later returned and approached Lionel Messi from behind, wrapping his arms around him. Security personnel quickly intervened and tackled the fan. Because he was still holding onto the Argentina captain, both went down to the ground during the takedown.
Messi got back to his feet almost immediately and did not appear to be injured. Security escorted the intruders off the field as the match wrapped up without any further disruptions, with Inter Miami CF closing out the friendly with the win.
Uniform Confusion And Earlier Injury Postponement Add To Turbulent Night In Puerto Rico
The field invasion followed earlier complications surrounding the event. Both Inter Miami and Independiente del Valle arrived wearing black kits, resulting in a one-hour delay before kickoff, according to USA Today. Officials ultimately proceeded with the match after addressing the uniform issue.
The friendly had originally been scheduled for February 13 but was postponed after Lionel Messi sustained a hamstring strain during a February 7 preseason match against Barcelona Sporting Club in Ecuador.
In a video message shared by ESPN, Messi addressed fans regarding the delay. “Hi everyone, I wanted to send this message to the people of Puerto Rico and all the people that will be going to the training session and game,” Messi said.
The soccer GOAT added, “To be honest, during the last game in Ecuador I concluded with a muscle strain, which is why I left the field early. So, together with the people of the organization and Inter Miami it was decided to suspend this game.”
“We hope it can be reprogrammed, and we can see each other. Visit you soon. Sending a hug to you all and thank you for all the love that you always give. I hope we can do it in the future, all the best,” he added.
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Messi completed the rescheduled match on February 26. Apart from this, Inter Miami will open its 2026 Major League Soccer season against Orlando City SC at Inter & Co. Stadium, marking the start of its league campaign.
