Well, Valentine’s Day wasn’t just about love and lights but also about on-field battles and crushing expectations. And no one felt that weight more than Lionel Messi – as when Inter Miami needed him to lift them past Orlando City, the 2-2 draw left them hanging. But then things got more wild. As Buffs assistant coach Warren Sapp’s daughter, Mercedes Sapp, thought of taking a jab at Messi’s struggles. Crazy right? It was a difficult night for Miami, more so for Messi, and the call-out made it far worse.

Let’s get straight to the point. Mercedes Sapp went to Raymond James Stadium to watch the much-awaited Miami vs. Orlando clash. Why? Obviously, because it has GOAT Messi in it. And as expected, when he went to chip the keeper inside the D-line, the whole stadium started chanting his name, “Messi, Messi,” only to see the Orlando City shot-stopper holding his ground and comfortably catching the shot taken by Messi.

Now Mercedes Sapp hits her Instagram story with the snap of that very moment, making a bold statement that reads, “Unfortunate for Messi, GK said not today.” It’s obviously a lighthearted joke. And knowing the kind of player he is, people tend to expect a lot from him. But let’s be real, one missed field goal cannot define the kind of player Messi is, right? Plus, let’s not forget Lionel Messi did have a tough run last season after his ankle injury, but despite that, he did what he always does: slay.

Moreover, the matchup was quite intense, but Inter Miami managed to finish the preseason without a loss. Orlando City took the lead first with Martín Ojeda scoring in the 15th minute. However, Tadeo Allende, with an assist from Luis Suárez, equalized in the 22nd minute. Ramiro Enrique then put Orlando back in the lead in the 54th minute, but Fafà Picault’s goal in stoppage time (90’+3’) saved Miami, resulting in a thrilling 2-2 draw in Tampa. Now, Messi & Co. are preparing for two games next week.

And just so you know, in the final preseason game, Inter Miami delivered more drama, even without a goal from Messi. Orlando’s early lead was short-lived as Allende, assisted by Suárez, leveled the score at 1-1. Enrique once again put Orlando in the lead, but Miami fought back, with Picault’s late equalizer securing another 2-2 draw.

But despite all this, you must be wondering what makes Mercedes Sapp so passionate about soccer? What’s the reason behind her presence at the games, sharing her opinions?

Mercedes Sapp’s ties with soccer

Well, Warren Sapp’s daughter not only talks about soccer, but she has also lived it. She excelled as a Division I goalkeeper at North Florida, where she set records and made history. In 2020, she made history by becoming UNF’s first-ever Goalkeeper of the Year. She started all 16 games, achieved eight shutouts, and maintained an impressive 0.823 save percentage. Her exceptional performance led to her receiving All-ASUN First Team honors and a spot on the United Soccer Coaches All-South Region team. She didn’t just play; she set the bar high.

Moreover, before her achievements at UNF, she spent three years in Missouri, where she successfully balanced academics, leadership roles, and community service. Despite her busy schedule, she earned a Mass Communication degree with a minor in Spanish. She was actively involved in important committees like SAAC and SAFE, advocating for equality and inclusion.

Her impact extended beyond the soccer field, whether she was leading the Tiger Leadership Institute or volunteering at Special Olympics. For Sapp, success meant more than just saving goals. So, knowing her history with this game, it’s safe to say that Mercedes Sapp knows what she is talking about!