“It Is a Bad Example” – Pitch Invader, Who Hugged Lionel Messi in China, Begs for ‘Forgiveness’ After Harsh Punishment From Chinese Police

Soccer fans invading the pitch has become an ordinary thing nowadays. In an attempt to meet their idols, individuals in the stadium often climb across the barrier and dribble past the security to say hi to the players. The same incident recently happened with Lionel Messi, as one fan came to hug the Argentinian superstar.

It was during the match between Argentina and Australia that took place in Beijing, China. While it may be termed a rewarding risk, it also has some consequences, as that pitch invader got a pretty harsh punishment.

Pitch invader slapped with huge punishment after hugging Lionel Messi

While this pitch invader may have fulfilled his dream to meet his idol, it definitely brought problems to his doorstep. After he was held by the stadium officials, the fan was taken into police custody. The Chinese police released the statement, saying the individual will not be allowed to enter a stadium for the next 12 months.

The individual, whose surname has been identified as Di, said he was quite remorseful about the situation. In fact, he stated the reason why he did it in the first place. As stated by Marca, while speaking to AFP, he said, “There were security breaches in the end zone I was in, so I ran down there. I apologize for my behavior, but I am a Messi fan. And I also did it to show that security is not competent, so I took the opportunity.”

Despite receiving a one-year ban from stadiums in China, Di expressed his determination to continue searching for Messi. Even if it means going to the U.S. He also expressed his regret for not getting a picture and an autograph. “Next time I will travel to Miami to do it, but that time I will do it without jumping on the field and without making the same mistake because it is a bad example, so I ask for forgiveness,” he added.

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Indeed, this Messi fan is quite optimistic and crazy, as he took Tom Cruise’s ‘Desperate Times, Desperate Measures’ quote too seriously. Either way, he did manage to meet his idol, which definitely came at a cost. Nevertheless, let’s look at how Messi and Co. put on a show for Asian fans.

Argentina put on a show in China

Messi must be surprised to meet his fan in such a way. Nevertheless, he must be happy with the result, as La Albiceleste rallied for a 2-0 victory against Australia. The win might be the icing on the cake. Moreover, the cherry on top was La Pulga scoring his 103rd international goal. It literally took Messi just 120 seconds to put his side ahead.

Meanwhile, a second-half strike from Germán Pezzella helped Lionel Scaloni’s side end the game with a 2-0 score. Indeed, the fans in China must have savored an enthralling performance from Messi and his side. The South American side continues to put on a show following their emphatic World Cup win.

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