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Messi scores sublime free kick but commits brutal stamp against Columbus

Author of his 21st MLS goal from a free kick into the top corner, Lionel Messi was also involved in a brutal stamp on Santiago Rodriguez, which went unpunished during Inter Miami's victory at Columbus (2-1).

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Messi scores sublime free kick but commits brutal stamp against Columbus
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Lionel Messi had a mixed evening at Columbus: decisive with a sumptuous free kick, the Argentine also committed a deliberate stamp on Santiago Rodriguez, which went unpunished, during Inter Miami’s victory over Columbus Crew (2-1).

In the 33rd minute, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner opened the scoring with an eccentric free kick from the right side, curled directly into the far corner. His 21st goal of the season in Major League Soccer allows him to consolidate his position as the top scorer in the North American championship at 39 years old.

But in this tense match, “la Pulga” also placed a deliberate stamp on Rodriguez’s foot in a gesture that escaped the referee’s attention. Neither yellow nor red card: the foul received no official sanction.

This outburst contrasts with the careful image Messi generally maintains on the pitch. While the gesture is far from the most serious seen in MLS this season, it remains unusual for a player rarely cited for unsporting behavior throughout his career.

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