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Inter Miami's Lionel Messi fined by MLS for slapping opponent

Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi was fined by Major League Soccer on Friday for delivering a slap to the head of a Philadelphia Union opponent.

Inter Miami's Lionel Messi fined by MLS for slapping opponent

Major League Soccer imposed an undisclosed fine on Inter Miami star Lionel Messi on Friday for slapping Philadelphia Union's Quinn Sullivan during a match on Wednesday. The incident occurred in the 101st minute of a 2-2 draw, just prior to an on-field brawl. Messi, who captains Argentina's national team and is considered one of the greatest players of all time, was penalized for violating the league's policy on making contact with an opponent's face, head, or neck.

The altercation between the two players began with Sullivan walking past Messi, who then delivered a quick slap with the back of his hand to Sullivan's head. Sullivan subsequently turned and touched Messi's face before they separated. Additionally, Union midfielder Ian Fray was also fined for striking Sullivan on the head during the same game.

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Lionel Messi fined by MLS for slapping back of opponent's neck

Lionel Messi slapped Quinn Sullivan on the back of the neck during Inter Miami CF's draw against the Philadelphia Union.

  • Lionel Messi fined by MLS for slapping opponent's neck during match.
  • Messi's teammate Ian Fray also fined for same violation.
  • MLS rescinds red card given to Quinn Sullivan in altercation.

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