Lionel Messi Joins Vissel Kobe for Japan-Friendly
Lionel Messi Joins Vissel Kobe- After a disappointing performance in Hong Kong, Lionel Messi left fans wanting more after a brief 30-minute appearance in Tokyo during Inter Miami’s latest exhibition match in Asia on Wednesday.
Messi entered the field as a substitute for the last 30 minutes and filled his teammates with energy and enthusiasm. His presence was felt as he led the team’s efforts, notably creating the best chance of the match in the 80th minute. Despite two close attempts, both were thwarted by the tenacious Vissel Kobe defense.
After a goalless draw in regular time the game went to a penalty shootout, with Vissel emerging victorious 4–3. Interestingly, Messi opted not to take part in the penalty kick, a decision that did not go down well with the crowd of 28,614 at Tokyo’s National Stadium, which has a capacity of 68,000.
The booing witnessed in Hong Kong was greater than any other example, sparked when Messi sat on the bench for the entire game due to a groin injury. Some fans even demanded a refund.
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In a rare press conference held in Tokyo on Tuesday, the Argentine star displayed remorse as he addressed the public relations debacle. Initially unsure of his fitness for the Tokyo event, he kept fans guessing until he began warming up in the second half, earning thunderous applause from the crowd.
“After Tuesday evening’s practice session, Messi felt well and we decided he would play 30 minutes,” Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino said. “We are very happy with the way things went after the game because Messi looked very comfortable.”
He failed to explain the reason behind Messi’s decision not to take the penalty.
In the first half, Vissel hit the post twice and continued to take control of the match, claiming his most promising chances so far.
Inter Miami’s global promotional tour ended with the match in Tokyo, stretching from El Salvador to Dallas, then to Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong before ending in the Japanese capital.
Inter managed to win only one of their six recent games. Miami’s preseason will conclude on February 16 in Florida, where they will face Newell’s Old Boys, the club from Rosario, Argentina, where Messi spent his youth. There are widespread fears that Messi could finally end his illustrious career with his boyhood club.
Inter Miami has a lineup full of former Barcelona talent, including players like Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets.
Former Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta graced the Japanese league with his presence and wore the colors of Vissel Kobe for several seasons. Before kick-off, he addressed the crowd with a few words.
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