“Please Don’t…”- Hours Before Semi-final Clash, Lionel Messi Plea Made by Rival Boss

Lionel Messi‘s Inter Miami is gearing up to face Philadelphia Union in the Leagues Cup 2023 semifinal. However, just hours before this highly anticipated clash, a surprising plea was made by the rival team’s boss.

On Tuesday, Aug. 15, the Leagues Cup 2023 semifinal will witness Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami facing off against Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park in Chester.

Unprecedented excitement: Philadelphia boss request to fans

Hours before their match with Inter Miami, Jim Curtin, the head coach of Philadelphia Union, made an unusual request to the team’s fans during a press conference. Curtin’s plea stems from the Messi Mania that has swept across the United States, driven by the presence of the Argentine. The anticipation of witnessing one of the greatest players in history in action has led to exorbitant ticket prices and a frenzy among fans.

In a press conference, Philadelphia Union’s manager urged the fans to refrain from selling their tickets. Regardless of the substantial offers they might receive. He emphasized, “Please don’t sell your tickets, no matter how much money they’re offering for them, please.”

Also Read: “We Can Win It”- Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami Boss Confident of Glory as They Prepare for Semis Clash in Philly

Curtin underscores the profound appeal of the superstar, particularly after his impressive start with Inter Miami, scoring an astounding eight goals in his first five matches. “We know that we’re going to have a packed Subaru Park. It’s going to be the number one ticket in the city, for sure. I’m sure some celebrities will be out here in Philly, so I’m excited for it,” he added.

The demand for tickets was extraordinary for the semifinal match. The 18,500-seat stadium was completely sold out within just eight minutes of the ticket launch. Ticket prices have now soared to around $323-$3499 per ticket on a ticket resale website, Seat Geek.

Messi mania and the Argentine’s impact on the game

The phenomenon of Messi Mania has reached the Philadelphia area. Similar to home games at DRV PNK Stadium and recent matches at Toyota Stadium in Dallas, fans are embracing the Messi fervor. During the Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Charlotte FC, Messi enthusiasts gathered hours before kickoff, sporting Argentina’s No. 10 Messi jerseys. This spectacle has become a customary ritual since the 7x Ballon d’Or winner arrived at Inter Miami in July. Fans gather along the stadium parking lot, chanting “Messi! Messi!”

La Pulga’s presence has significantly boosted Inter Miami’s performance. In the Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Charlotte FC, Miami secured a 4-0 victory. In the 86th minute, Leo Campana assisted Messi in finding the net from close range. Since Messi’s inclusion in the team, Inter Miami has experienced a surge in goal-scoring prowess, notching 17 goals in just five matches. Before Messi joined the team, Inter Miami had scored 22 goals in 22 games.

The clash between Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union promises to be a memorable affair, with both teams vying for a spot in the final. The Argentine icon will look to get closer to his first silverware in the US.

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