From Daddy Yankee to Ilia Topuria: Celebrities Present to Witness Lionel Messi’s Return in Inter Miami vs. Colorado

Lionel Messi finally resumed action with Inter Miami after missing five games because of a hamstring problem. Though he did not just start, he rather came off the bench and announced his return in style. Messi spurred up Miami’s comeback with a 57th-minute strike when the Herons were still trailing the Colorado Rapids. So the legend has yet again proved that it will be a gala for the fans whenever he laces up for the Herons in Fort Lauderdale.

Well, it was literally a gala in the Chase Stadium as a couple of celebrities channeled their inner fanboys to witness the Argentine’s masterclass. This gesture from celebrities is not a surprise either. LeBron James and Kim Kardashian watched in awe from the stands when the 8x Ballon d’Or winner debuted for Inter Miami. Later, when Messi and Miami took to Tinsel Town, the Leonardo DiCaprios of the world cheered him on.

A grand welcome for Lionel Messi

It was quite uncertain if fans would get to see Lionel Messi play against Colorado. Courtesy of the hamstring injury he picked up in early March, the Argentine’s availability has always been a game-time decision for Tata Martino. Nevertheless, the Puerto Rican rap icon Daddy Yankee couldn’t help but try his luck to see if Messi would play.

Thankfully, Yankee had the privilege of seeing the 36-year-old score a stunner, and besides, Daddy Yankee wore a Miami jersey to warmly embrace La Pulga courtside before the match kicked off.

While Daddy Yankee had this wholesome moment with Leo Messi on the field, Spanish MMA superstar Ilia Topuria cheered on from the VIP lounge in the Chase Stadium. Viral clips on X show an effervescent Topuria applauding Messi’s edge-gaining 57th-minute strike.

Ilia Topuria’s connection to soccer is quite famous among the fans. He has collaborated with Messi’s ex-teammate and Barcelona legend Gerard Pique to launch a novel MMA project in Spain. Besides, the MMA star has also once famously lauded Leo Messi, despite his affinity for Real Madrid.

Ilia Topuria’s grand praise of Lionel Messi

Ilia Topuria is a Real Madrid fan. Considering all the damage Lionel Messi has inflicted on Madrid, it is quite unlikely for such a fan to publicly praise him. However, Topuria is an outlier. He confidently said, “I’m a fan of Real Madrid for its values, but as an athlete, I really like Messi and the approach he gave to his life.” Further, he added that Messi has inspired him in his career. So it is no surprise that the Spaniard has rushed to South Florida to get a glimpse of his idol.

Anyhow, Messi’s goal did not help Inter Miami secure a win. After Messi, Miami’s very own, Leonardo Alfonso scored a goal to gain the lead. However, the Herons blew it in the 88th minute after conceding a goal from Colorado’s Cole Bassett. Despite not winning, Miami’s game against Colorado will be the talk of town because it set the stage for Leo’s return.

READ MORE: Monterrey Boss Opens Up on Alleged Confrontation With Lionel Messi Over Referee Bias Comments After Inter Miami’s Loss