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Lionel Messi reportedly swore at the referee after Inter Miami were denied a penalty in their 1-1 draw against Charlotte FC in the MLS on September 28. The match marked their third consecutive draw after a 2-2 result against Atlanta United and 1-1 stalemate against New York City FC.
After a goalless first half, Charlotte's Karol Swiderski gave them the lead in the 57th minute. However, Lionel Messi equalized ten minutes later with an effortless curling shot from outside the box. The Herons were close to securing a late win after Luis Suarez's collision with Charlotte goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina was suspected to be a potential foul, which would have resulted in a penalty for Messi's side.
However, the referee did not award a penalty and Messi was visibly furious at his decision. The Argentine was shown a yellow card for arguing with the referee, and reportedly also swore at him. According to Ole, Messi said (via Metro):
"You’re a mean-spirited son of a b***h."
After spending two months off the pitch to recover from an ankle injury, Lionel Messi made his comeback for Inter Miami in their MLS clash against Philadelphia Union on September 14. His goal against Charlotte FC marked his first strike since his brace against Philadelphia Union in his comeback game.
Inter Miami will be desperate to win their next MLS game against Columbus on October 2 after three consecutive draws.
Lionel Messi hits Iron Man-inspired celebration after scoring in Inter Miami's 1-1 draw against Charlotte FC
Lionel Messi appeared to hit a unique celebration inspired by Marvel superhero Iron Man after scoring the equalizer in Inter Miami's 1-1 draw against Charlotte FC on Saturday (September 28).
After scoring a beautiful curler from outside the box in the 67th minute, Messi put his hands to his side with his palms facing downward and tiptoed up to mimic Iron Man's iconic flight.
Messi has been spotted performing celebrations inspired by multiple Marvel superheroes for a while because of his three sons. He has previously mimicked Thor reaching out to his hammer, creating webs like Spider Man, and crossing his arms on his chest like Black Panther.
Lionel Messi has maintained his impressive form for Inter Miami since his return from injury, with his goal against Charlotte FC marking his 841st career goal. The Argentine has found the back of the net 15 times and set up 10 goals for the Herons in 16 MLS appearances this season.
