Argentina captain Lionel Messi was knocked to the ground by a pitch invader during Inter Miami CF’s friendly victory over Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico.
Messi, introduced at half-time, was brought down by a fan with just two minutes of regular time left. Several supporters had already entered the field trying to get close to him, and while he was taking a selfie with one, another ran in and grabbed him around the waist.
Security intervened swiftly, with Messi, the intruder, and a guard all ending up on the ground during the struggle.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner appeared unhurt and later walked across to the other side of the pitch as more security personnel arrived.
Messi also scored from the penalty spot in the 2–1 win, while Santiago Morales added Miami’s other goal.
The match had initially been scheduled for 13 February but was postponed due to Messi’s hamstring issue.
Inter Miami—co-owned by David Beckham—began their Major League Soccer campaign with a 3–0 loss to Los Angeles FC last weekend.
They are set to face state rivals Orlando City SC on Sunday.
