Lionel Messi was sanctioned by the MLS Disciplinary Committee for hitting an opponent in the face. The incident occurred during the match Philadelphia Union - Inter Miami, where Messi scored a goal dedicated to his father.

Lionel Messi was fined by the MLS Disciplinary Committee after hitting an opponent in the face in the final minutes of the match between Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami.

The incident occurred during a scuffle with player Quinn Sullivan, and the referee did not notice the exact moment, not giving Messi any card. In stoppage time, two more dismissals occurred, but Messi managed to score an emotional goal, dedicated to his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away on August 8. Inter Miami is going through a difficult period, with four consecutive matches without a win, and is seven points behind the Eastern Conference leader, Nashville.

Messi has had a remarkable performance this season, with 15 goals and 9 assists in 20 matches.