Argentina-Nigeria Friendly Cancelled In China Due to the Country's Feud With Lionel Messi

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Sofoluwe Mayowa

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May 8, 2023
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Chinese authorities had cancelled the friendly match between Argentina and Nigeria due to Lionel Messi's failure to play in the Inter Miami match in Hong Kong.

The Hangzhou Sports authorities confirmed the cancellation with a statement saying, "As a commercial event, a company and the Argentinian soccer team negotiated that the team would play a friendly match in March this year in the city of Hangzhou."

"The conditions for holding the event are immature and it has been decided that the event should be cancelled."

The organisers of the match in Hong Kong are looking forward to giving 50% refunds for tickets after the Argentine failed to take part in the match during the Inter Miami win against Hong Kong All Star, which ended 4-1 in favour of the American side.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner failed to play despite being named part of the Inter Miami team after he suffered a serious injury in training.


According to the Hong Kong Sport Minister, Lionel Messi was contracted to play for at least 45 minutes for the fans to watch the World Cup winner.

Although the Inter Miami manager Gerardo Martino failed to bring Lionel Messi to the pitch, which angered the fans.

After the game, Inter Miami owner David Beckham went to the pitch to greet the crowd and thank them for their incredible welcome.

The angry fans met the owner with boos from the 40,000 fans who had paid £365 each just to watch Lionel Messi play football.

A fan even flew from Melbourne just to watch Lionel Messi play.

Some fans even took out their anger on the billboard outside the stadium.

The Hong Kong government was equally furious about the situation, releasing a statement that they could withdraw £1.6 million in funding to the organisers that helped bring Inter Miami to the city.

The authorities said, "Regarding Messi not playing the match day, the government, as well as all football fans, are extremely disappointed about the organiser's arrangement."

Chinese-controlled global time subsequently launched a fresh attack on the Argentine striker, claiming he failed to play due to political motives, with the aim of embarrassing Hong Kong.

Another game organiser claimed they were heartbroken, accusing Lionel Messi and Inter Miami of a lack of respect.

The organiser revealed the fact that they spent blood and sweat to bring the football match to Hong Kong but they were let down.

After the game against Hong Kong, he subsequently travelled to Japan to play against Vissel Kobe, with Lionel Messi coming on in the 60th minute to see his team lose on penalty.

The Argentine was also seen laughing after his teammate Robert Taylor was denied twice from the penalty spot during the friendly matches.

What do you think about Chinese authorities canceling their match? Air your views in the comment section.
 
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