Footage shows Lionel Messi trying to help young fan evade security after selfie in Inter Miami match
Today at 06:49 AM
Lionel Messi was on hand to assist a fan after they luckily grabbed a selfie with the footballing icon.
The Inter Miami star scored his 17th goal of the year for the club in their 1-1 MLS draw at home to Charlotte FC at the weekend.
Messi showcased his world-class talent by finding the bottom-left corner from outside of the area to equalise for his side.
Given he’s one of the most successful footballers of all-time, it comes as no surprise that fans are desperate to take a picture with him.
One young supporter in particular fancied their chances of meeting him on the pitch during the clash in Miami.
Video footage online shows the youngster holding a phone and running towards Messi, who has a bodyguard on pitchside at matches, with the camera likely ready to go.
The record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner appears to be ushering him to be quick as he can see security running behind.
Messi puts his arm around the fan as the picture is seemingly taken before they quickly dash away to evade the stadium security.
However, despite nearly making it off the pitch, an official is able to catch up and grab their shirt before lifting towards the side.
The fan, who donned Inter Miami’s away kit, had a beaming smile on their face after meeting the Argentine legend.
Messi and co. were unable to score a winner against Charlotte, with Luis Suarez missing a golden opportunity to do so in stoppage-time.
However, Inter Miami sit top of the MLS Eastern Conference and have qualified for the MLS Cup play-offs.
Messi has scored 15 goals and assisted another ten in 16 league appearances for the club as they eye their first ever MLS title.
They play just three more matches against Columbus Crew, Toronto FC and New England Revolution before round one of the play-offs.
Inter Miami’s opponents are yet to be confirmed but victory against a Eastern Conference side would take them into the semi-finals.
Should they come out on top in the final four, they will then play in the conference finals for a spot in the MLS Cup.
Inter Miami’s opponents will come from the Western Conference, with Columbus Crew the defending champions.
