Lionel Messi’s dramatic Leagues Cup win for Inter Miami included an emotional moment with Atlas’ Matias Coccaro, where a heated exchange was followed by Messi’s apology and a gesture of respect.
Lionel Messi’s fiery celebrations during Inter Miami’s dramatic 2-1 win over Atlas in the Leagues Cup final sparked a rare display of emotion from the Argentine icon. As the Herons clinched victory in stoppage time, Messi, who had provided two assists during the match, let his passion get the better of him by screaming directly in the face of Atlas’ Matias Coccaro.
The tension started after Coccaro celebrated Atlas’ equaliser in front of the Inter Miami fans, which clearly irked Messi. The Argentine responded with intensity, and his fiery reaction made headlines immediately after the final whistle.
However, true to his character, Messi soon put aside the emotional moment. After the match, he approached Coccaro and offered an apology for his outburst. The 8-time Ballon d’Or winner not only expressed his regret but also made a gesture of goodwill by gifting his No. 10 jersey to Coccaro in an act of respect and sportsmanship.
In a heartfelt exchange, Coccaro reflected on the incident, explaining to reporters, “When we tied it 1-1, I motivated my team-mates, and he (Messi) took it the wrong way. Afterwards, when they scored, he yelled at me. When the match was over, we hugged. I said to him, ‘What am I going to say to you?’ I’m a winner; I always want to win. He understood and said, ‘I’m sending you the jersey.'”
Coccaro went on to praise Messi for his class: “The fact that he came to apologise like that speaks highly of him as a person. He’s the best in history.” He added that Messi’s gesture further solidified his admiration for the global superstar, alongside his respect for Luis Suarez, who also happens to be his idol.
This emotional display not only showcased Messi’s competitive spirit but also his sportsmanship, proving once again that he’s not just a footballing legend, but also a true professional with respect for the game and its players.
