Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi recently expressed his frustration with the new Major League Soccer rule that requires injured players to leave the field for two minutes. During a match against Montréal, Messi was fouled by defender George Campbell, leading to a brief stoppage in play as the medical staff attended to him. Despite the severity of the foul, Campbell did not receive a yellow card, leaving Messi visibly upset as he was forced to exit the pitch at a crucial moment in the game.
Following the match, Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino shared his team’s frustration with the new rule. Martino emphasized that certain situations, such as Messi’s injury, need to be reevaluated. He highlighted the lack of consequences for Campbell’s foul, stating that the team that suffered the infraction was ultimately punished. The coach expressed disappointment in losing Messi for two minutes due to what he believed should have been a clear yellow card offense.
In addition to Messi’s injury and subsequent sidelining, Inter Miami faced another challenge when Luis Suárez failed to exit the field promptly after being substituted in the 92nd minute. This delay led to a one-minute setback in the substitution process, leaving the team with 10 men in the final moments of the game. Martino explained the confusion with the fourth official regarding Suárez’s timely exit from the field, underscoring the importance of adhering to MLS substitution rules.
Despite the setbacks experienced off the field, Inter Miami managed to secure a 3-2 victory over Montréal, further solidifying their position at the top of the Eastern Conference table. With 27 points in 13 games and a record of 8-2-3, the team continues to demonstrate strength and resilience on the field, overcoming obstacles both in the game itself and due to external rule changes.
Messi’s vocal criticism of the new MLS rule, along with Coach Martino’s dissatisfaction with various aspects of the regulatory changes, highlights the ongoing challenges faced by players and teams in adapting to evolving policies. While these obstacles may present temporary hurdles, Inter Miami’s ability to triumph in the face of adversity serves as a testament to their determination and skill on the field. As the team navigates through external challenges, their commitment to success remains unwavering, positioning them as a formidable force within the league.
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