Hong Kong – Soccer fans in Hong Kong were left disappointed when Argentine superstar Lionel Messi failed to take to the field in a friendly match for Inter Miami on Sunday. The sold-out, 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium witnessed overwhelming cheers turn into boos and calls for refunds. Inter Miami comfortably defeated a Hong Kong XI 4-1, but the absence of Messi overshadowed the game. The disappointment was also felt by the government, which expressed dismay at the event organizer’s arrangements.
New signing Luis Suárez also did not feature in the match, and marquee players Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets were only substituted on in the second half. The trophy presentation, fireworks, and a speech by club co-owner David Beckham were engulfed in whistles and jeers in an awkward end to the trip. The disappointment was palpable in the stands as fans clamored for Messi’s presence, with shouts of “refund, refund, refund” echoing in both English and Cantonese.
Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino explained that the decision not to field Messi was made on very late notice and under the recommendation of the club’s medical staff. He apologized to the fans and thanked Hong Kong for the “care” they had received throughout the weekend. Martino also addressed the type of injury Messi had sustained, citing an inflammation of the adductor as the reason for his absence, while Suárez sustained a knee injury during the Saudi Arabia trip.
The disappointment was not only felt among the fans but also by the local Messi superfan Christer Leung, who had been eagerly anticipating Messi’s appearance. Furthermore, the disappointment was compounded by the high ticket prices and the buildup of excitement around Messi’s visit to Hong Kong.
The absence of Messi left a void in what was supposed to be a highly anticipated event. Despite the disappointment, the overall sentiment was still one of acknowledgment of the players’ conditions and appreciation for the opportunity to witness international soccer stars on the field. Inter Miami’s upcoming friendly against Vissel Kobe in Japan now awaits the team, as they continue their international tour.