Without the Argentine
Lionel Messi
and the Uruguayan
Luis
Suárez
, both with discomfort,
Inter Miami
achieved its first preseason victory early on Sunday by beating a team of players from the modest
Hong Kong
league 4-1 .
The absence of the two stars generated frustration in the public, who had paid significant sums in the hope of seeing, above all, the Rosario star, booed and whistled at the end of the match.
The Florida team left the stadium with whistles due to the anger of the public who were left without seeing Messi and Suárez on the field and could only enjoy half an hour of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.
"We want Messi, we want Messi," repeatedly shouted the more than 38,000 spectators, who had paid between 880 and 4,800 Hong Kong dollars (112.5 and 614 US dollars) to see, above all, the Argentine star.
The reaction of the fans who were waiting for Messi.
Photo: Peter PARKS / AFP.
"It was a decision made together with the medical team. We were at great risk of aggravating his injuries," explained Argentine coach Gerardo Martino, who revealed that Messi has inflammation in his abductor and Suárez has problems with his knee.
🔟🇭🇰 pic.twitter.com/ZVAY5X4YcH
— Messi Xtra (@M30Xtra) February 4, 2024
"We understand the disappointment that people have. We apologize," added the coach.
Messi listens to the reaction of the people surrounded by his teammates.
Photo: REUTERS / Lam Yik.
With information from Agencies