You know something’s wrong when the calm-headed Lionel Messi is wreathing in anger. In the 41st minute of today’s Inter-Miami game, La Pulga received an ill-fashioned tackle. The soccer icon was in discomfort and in came the medical staff. Unlike in Europe, Messi had to exit the field for 2 minutes. This MLS sideline rule was a ‘bad job‘ according to the playmaker. The situation has dominated the headlines and now coach Tata Martino has had his say on the matter.

In the post-match presser, Martino expressed his disagreement with the decision. He said, “I think he (Lionel Messi) received a foul and the player deserved the yellow card, so he shouldn’t have been sent out for two minutes.” Unfortunately, there was no yellow card for George Campbell’s foul and the freekick did not benefit Inter Miami at all as their designated specialist was out of the pitch. Adding to the frustration was the scoreline. Inter Miami were trailing 2-0 and the captain was visibly agitated on the touchline. Regarding the rule, La Pulga was captured saying, “These types of rules…it’s going bad.”

Martino summed up the situation, “I understand that it was the team that suffered the foul that was penalized. So obviously, with this rule change, there are situations that need to be reviewed.” It’s clear that Martino isn’t a fan of the rule. Luckily, playing with 10 men didn’t cost the Herons. In fact, they scripted a heroic comeback victory and won 3-2. Veteran star Luis Suarez led from the front with a goal and was imperious throughout. Yet, just like Lionel Messi, El Pistolero was also left frustrated with another trademark MLS rule.

MLS rules are not getting popular among Lionel Messi & Co

It was the 92nd minute and the match was pretty much sealed. Tata Martino substituted Luis Suarez for Leonardo Campana. The Uruguayan striker exited the pitch, albeit not in a lightning-fast manner. This meant that the Herons were penalized for breaking another MLS rule. Notably, all the substitutes had to leave the pitch within 10 seconds, which Suarez failed to do so. Therefore, following the Lionel Messi incident, Inter Miami had to play with 10 men again as the substitute was delayed by 1 minute.

As per the Inter Miami boss, there was a ‘significant difference‘ with the 4th official on the Suarez case. Yet, in the end, all worked out well for Tata Martino. Lionel Messi escaped from an injury and his side walked away with all 3 points. Inter Miami’s form has been increasing throughout the season. Today’s match is a perfect testament to that as the last time these 2 sides met, Montreal walked away with the victory. Can the Herons continue to improve? The expectations are not getting any lower.