A group of enthusiasts in Hong Kong ascended a mountain with the intention of observing Lionel Messi, only to be disheartened when he was relegated to the bench by Inter Miami.

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WHAT HAPPENED?

The Argentine prodigy is currently in the Far East as the Herons persist in their globetrotting pre-season tour. Nevertheless, Messi’s playing time has been restricted due to an injury he sustained. He was allotted a just seven minutes of playtime in a friendly match against Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, which did not include his perennial competitor Cristiano Ronaldo.

Hong Kong fans had anticipated witnessing the return of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner as he graced their region. However, he remained on the bench during the match, serving as an unused replacement with Luis Suarez. Inter Miami emerged victorious with a 4-1 scoreline.

Were you aware?

The spectators inside the stadium, who had promptly purchased costly tickets, expressed their frustration at not witnessing Messi’s appearance on the pitch. Individuals situated outside the stadium experienced heightened levels of annoyance, prompting a few to ascend a neighbouring mountain in order to obtain a glimpse of the legendary figure.

Inter Miami will stay in Asia to hold a meeting with the Japanese team Vissel Kobe on Wednesday. After that, they will return to the United States for a home match against Newell’s Old Boys and the beginning of the 2024 MLS season on February 21.