Lionel Messi has long been a figure of admiration in football, but his relationship with Mexican fans has become notoriously strained in recent years. Known for his prowess on the pitch, Messi’s success against Mexico in multiple international tournaments has led to an ongoing rivalry that flared up once again during a recent pre-season friendly between Inter Miami and Club America.
Messi's header stuns Mexican fans
In a match that served as a warm-up before the 2025 Major League Soccer season, Messi found the back of the net in the 34th minute with a powerful header from six yards out, levelling the score after Inter Miami had been trailing 1-0.
The goal came off a precise assist from Luis Suarez, and Messi’s celebration immediately turned into a moment of tension. Mexican fans in the stands began booing and chanting slurs in response to the Argentine star’s presence on the field.
Instead of staying silent, Messi known for his composed demeanour fired back with a pointed gesture. He raised his hands to show a "3 and 0" sign, a subtle reminder that Argentina has won three FIFA World Cups, while Mexico has yet to capture their first. The exchange quickly gained traction on social media, leaving the football world buzzing over Messi's bold response to the jeers.
The root of the rivalry: A historic incident
The ongoing animosity between Messi and Mexican fans can be traced back to the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Mexico and Argentina clashed in the group stage, a match that proved crucial for both teams.
After a shocking 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia, Argentina needed a victory to stay alive in the tournament. Messi stepped up in the 66th minute, scoring a brilliant goal that helped secure a 2-0 win for La Albiceleste.
However, what followed that game caused a significant backlash. A video surfaced showing Messi inadvertently placing his foot on a Mexican flag, which was found on the ground in the locker room. The incident, which Messi later explained was accidental, ignited a firestorm of criticism. Mexican fans, already sensitive to their team’s defeat, saw this as a deliberate act of disrespect.
The controversy escalated when Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez took to social media, threatening Messi for what he perceived as a deliberate insult. Though Alvarez later apologized for his remarks, the damage had been done, and the incident fueled growing hostility toward Messi in Mexico.
The rivalry between Messi and Mexican fans is likely to persist for some time. The Argentine star’s repeated dominance over the national team, combined with the controversial 2022 World Cup episode, has created a deep divide. While Messi remains a legendary figure in football, this ongoing conflict highlights the complex relationship between players and their global fanbases.