Star player Lionel Messi has enjoyed great success since his Inter Miami CF debut as the league continues its run in the League Cup, but it doesn’t seem to have gone down well with everyone.
In fact, some supporters have criticized the famous Argentine on social media. His second goal from the penalty spot in Sunday’s round of 16 clash against FC Dallas was the subject of some questions. Observers pointed out that Messi had moved the ball a few meters to the left before executing and thwarting goalkeeper Maarten Paes.
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This video of Lionel Messi slowly and stealthily moving the ball a few yards to the left so he has a better angle on his free kick is a good reminder that even the world’s best athletes are constantly looking for an advantage.pic.twitter.com/0WH9Jv9Pup
—Joe Pompliano (@JoePompliano) August 8, 2023
The whole thing infuriated several fans, possibly from the Texas team. Their favorites lost on penalties, ending their hopes of progressing.
“Trying to gain an advantage is the new way of cheating. And I know many others feel the same way…yes, I think they’re all cheating [car ça va à l’encontre des règles]wrote one of them, as the New York Post reports.
“Looking for an edge” is the new way of referring to cheating lol.
And yes I know many others are doing the same… and yes I think they are all cheating (because it’s against the rules)
— It’s Always Eboue (@ArsenalANewDawn) August 9, 2023
“It’s pure fraud. “He could only do that because the referee wasn’t looking,” said another.
This is pure fraud. He only managed that because the referee wasn’t looking.
— Macaulay Maduwuba (@McAulayMaduwuba) August 9, 2023
Miami meets Charlotte FC in the Quarterfinals.