(Video) Messi faces MLS disciplinary action after striking opponent

Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi is under formal investigation by the Major League Soccer Disciplinary Committee following an uncharacteristic off the ball incident during Wednesday’s 2-2 draw against Philadelphia Union.

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The altercation & escalating tensions

The high tempo fixture at Chase Stadium boiled over during a deeply fractured second half. Messi who had found the back of the net earlier in the match, became entangled in an off the ball dispute with Union midfielder Quinn Sullivan as the Herons desperately pushed to regain their lead.

As on pitch friction escalated following Philadelphia's equalizer, viral video footage captured the Argentine legend striking the back of Sullivan's head with an open palm before the two players went face to face.

The match official did not penalize the Inter Miami captain in real time, leaving the incident entirely open to retroactive league review. In a separate late game incident, Quinn's younger brother, Cavan Sullivan, was sent off in stoppage time after clashing with Yannick Bright.

Disciplinary review & potential sanctions

The MLS Disciplinary Committee possesses full authority to review match footage and issue retroactive punishments for violent conduct or unsporting behavior missed by the refereeing crew.

Should the committee rule against the former Barcelona star, Messi could face a financial fine or a one match suspension. Losing their primary playmaker and top scorer would serve as a massive blow to Inter Miami as they battle for supremacy in the Eastern Conference standings.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Inter Miami CF