Messi’s Controversial Move: Dazzling Dribble Past an Injured Player – A Skillful Display or Unfair Advantage?

Lionel Messi, an Argentine superstar, was condemned by internet users for dribbling the ball past a player who was lying on the pitch due to an injury during the first game of the new season.

Within the context of a circumstance in which Messi was condemned for passing the ball over a player who was lying on the field due to an injury – Source: Major League Soccer

The alleged nasty event that Messi experienced occurred during the match between Inter Miami and Real Salt Lake, which took place on the morning of February 22 in the first round of the American Professional Soccer League (MLS). Inter Miami launched an attack in the 44th minute, and Messi was able to make a breakthrough by holding tight to the ball.

The Real Salt Lake man who is currently lying on the field due to an injury is right in front of Messi’s eyes at this very moment. However, Messi did not stop the play and instead made the decision to push the ball past his opponent. He continued to run into the penalty area in order to take a shot towards the goalkeeper Zac MacMath, who was playing for Real Salt Lake. Real Salt Lake defenders were able to block Messi’s shot in the final moments of the game. 

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 They thought this was an unkind action because Messi should have stopped the ball so the referee could look at the injured player. On the other hand, he continued to pass the ball past his opponent. 

Messi in Inter Miami's match against Real Salt Lake taking place on the morning of February 22 - Photo: Deportes RPC

 One fan wrote: “This is crazy. This is not beautiful at all when he continues to dribble even though he is an injured player in front of him.” 

But there are also many opinions defending Messi because they believe that he made a very skillful move by pressing the ball over his body to avoid touching the injured player. It shows the Argentine star’s superior ball handling ability .