A tense ending in Miami

The Leagues Cup clash between Inter Miami and Atlas ended with tempers flaring. Marcelo Weigandt’s stoppage-time goal in the 96th minute—after a lengthy VAR review—sparked chaos on the pitch and triggered a scuffle between players from both sides.

The goal celebration included an emotional embrace between Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, but also a tense exchange of words between Messi and Matías Cóccaro, with whom he had clashed earlier in the match. After the final whistle, things escalated, with shoves and insults forcing Messi’s personal bodyguard to step onto the field to separate the players.

Messi’s unexpected gesture

Despite the tension and the heated atmosphere, Messi once again proved his professionalism. After the scuffle, the Inter Miami captain went straight to Camilo Vargas, the experienced Colombian goalkeeper and Atlas captain. He embraced him and handed over his jersey as a sign of mutual respect. Luis Suárez also joined in, hugging the goalkeeper.

The moment was captured on video and quickly went viral, earning praise for the sportsmanship shown by both players. Despite the intensity and provocations, Messi kept his cool—and closed the night with a gesture that, for many, meant more than any goal.