Messi fined by MLS after tense clash with Philadelphia star

MIAMI: Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer after becoming involved in a heated late-game confrontation with Philadelphia Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan during Inter Miami’s 2-2 draw with Philadelphia.

The MLS Disciplinary Committee announced the punishment on Friday, saying Messi had violated the league’s policy concerning players putting their hands to the face, head or neck of an opponent. The amount of the fine was not disclosed.

Inter Miami teammate Ian Fray was also fined an undisclosed amount for the same violation, adding another disciplinary twist to an already tense encounter.

The incident occurred deep into stoppage time on Wednesday, Aug. 19, at Subaru Park. With the ball being played elsewhere, Messi approached Sullivan near the centre circle following an exchange between the players.

Messi then made contact with Sullivan around the head and neck area. Sullivan responded by confronting the Argentine star, leading to a tense face-to-face exchange before officials intervened.

Referee Filip Dujic had initially not seen the incident because his back was turned. He arrived shortly afterwards to separate the players but did not issue either Messi or Quinn Sullivan a card for the confrontation.

The match later descended into further chaos in stoppage time. Quinn Sullivan became involved in another altercation with Inter Miami’s Ian Fray, while Philadelphia’s Cavan Sullivan and Miami midfielder Yannick Bright were also involved in the ensuing scuffle.

Cavan Sullivan and Bright were both sent off, turning an already dramatic finish into a disciplinary flashpoint. Cavan Sullivan’s red-card suspension was later overturned on appeal, making him available for Philadelphia’s next match.

Despite the controversy, Messi had a major influence on the match itself. He provided an assist before scoring Inter Miami’s second goal in the 26th minute, curling a left-footed effort into the corner.

The goal was particularly emotional for the 39-year-old Argentine, as it was his first since returning to action following the death of his father, Jorge Messi.

Philadelphia eventually fought back to earn a 2-2 draw, with Neil Pierre scoring in the second half to level the contest.

For Messi, the match therefore ended on two very different notes: a memorable goal and assist on the field, followed by an unexpected disciplinary sanction.

The MLS fine does not carry a suspension, but it serves as a reminder that even one of football’s biggest stars remains subject to the league’s conduct rules.

With the regular season intensifying, both Messi and Inter Miami will now hope the incident remains a footnote rather than becoming a distraction from their push for success.