Lionel Messi had more celebrities in attendance for his game last night than he would have thought about, despite playing away in California against the MLS champions.
Inter Miami’s hopes of reaching the playoffs took a big blow after their 0-0 draw against Nashville last week but they surmounted another difficult test against Los Angeles FC.
The veteran did not get on the scoresheet once again but assisted twice as Jordi Alba scored his first MLS goal and Ecuadorian striker, Leonardo Campana made it 3-0 late in the game.
Lionel Messi stands over a corner kick and fans have their phones out for pictures. Photo by Keith Birmingham.
Source: Getty Images
LAFC pulled one back in the 90th but it was too late to amount to anything, with Messi’s team leaving California with all three points and continuing their chase for a playoff spot.
What Selena Gomez said about Messi
Ahead of the game, LAFC revealed the long list of notable personalities arriving to see Messi play at their home stadium, including singer, Selena Gomez.
The Texas-born singer is a fan of the Argentina captain and was in awe throughout the game, despite him missing a chance to double his team’s lead in the first 38 minutes.
After the game, she was approached by ESPN Argentina, who quizzed her about the game and then asked her to send a message to the Inter Miami captain.
“I love you very much,” she responded, translated from the viral video clip.
Also in attendance was Prince Harry, who fulfilled his lifelong dream of watching the former Barcelona captain play.
As reported by Goal, American actor Owen Wilson was delighted to meet Messi and compared his happiness to a child at Christmas.
LeBron James acknowledges Messi’s greatness
Sports Brief also reported on LeBron James acknowledging Messi’s greatness after watching his debut for Inter Miami against Cruz Azul live at the DRV PNK Stadium.
The LA Lakers star was in the stadium alongside other American sports personalities and celebrities, including Serena Williams, Tom Brady, and Kim Kardashian.
After the game, James took to social media to welcome the 36-year-old to the US and expressed joy at beholding greatness, to which the football superstar responded.