A video shot by a supporter at the LA Galaxy vs Inter Miami game has shown how Lionel Messi contributed to Riqui Puig’s early missed penalty.
There were just 10 minutes on the clock in California when the hosts were given a golden opportunity to get off to a dream start. Former Barcelona star Puig stepped up to the spot, but saw his effort from 12 yards beaten away by Drake Callender.
Messi was caught telling Drake Calendar which way to dive
No wonder he gets GOD treatment đđ pic.twitter.com/yEibgYHYbL
— DAMđŠđș (FAN) (@FCBxDAM) February 26, 2024
Another ex-Blaugrana star played a small part in the scores remaining level â with it revealed that Messi, who was stood some 30 yards away, waved Callender in the direction that Puig would strike the ball. The Argentine was proved correct as his one-time team-mate at Camp Nou went to his right.
Messi would go on to make another important contribution for Inter Miami, as he salvaged a point for them in a 1-1 draw by snatching a dramatic 92nd-minute equaliser. He may have felt a little sorry for Puig afterwards, with the Galaxy playmaker revealing that he is now the proud owner of signed Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba jerseys.
Messi remains the star attraction wherever he goes in the United States, with more A-list guests in attendance during a visit to California, and he will be be back in action on Saturday when Inter Miami take in an MLS derby date with Florida neighbours Orlando City.