Lionel Messi avoided injury after a chaotic pitch invasion disrupted Inter Miami’s friendly clash with Independiente del Valle in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, where an overzealous supporter and an urgent security intervention brought the Argentine superstar to the ground.
The incident occurred late in the exhibition match as multiple fans breached security and ran onto the field in an attempt to reach the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. One supporter managed to hug Messi before a security guard rushed in to restrain the intruder. In the process, the guard’s tackle inadvertently knocked Messi off his feet, sending him briefly to the turf.
Despite the fall, Messi quickly got back up and walked away without any signs of injury, appearing calm and composed as order was restored.
The friendly itself was far from routine. Kick-off experienced delays, and repeated pitch invasions disrupted the flow of the match, highlighting the challenge of controlling crowds when one of football’s most recognisable figures is present.
Messi had entered the game at halftime and made his mark by converting a penalty in Inter Miami’s 2–1 victory over the Ecuadorian side. His appearance drew an electric response from the Puerto Rican crowd, which contributed to the repeated attempts by fans to reach the global icon.
Security staff eventually cleared the field, allowing the match to resume and conclude without further incident. Reports indicated Messi remained unaffected by the scare, showing no visible discomfort after the collision.
Pitch invasions have become an increasingly common occurrence during matches featuring Messi, whose worldwide appeal often prompts supporters to seek close contact. Fortunately for Inter Miami and their supporters, the latest episode ended without injury.
Messi’s presence continues to draw massive attention wherever he plays, and despite the disruption in Puerto Rico, the Argentine star delivered both a goal and a reminder of his enduring global pull.
