Lionel Messi rubbed salt in the wounds of booing Mexican fans by appearing to bring up their dismal World Cup record.
The 37-year-old was on target in Inter Miami’s pre-season victory over Mexican outfit Club America at the Allegiant Stadium on Saturday night.
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Messi equalised for the hosts with a header from close range in the 34th minute – almost immediately after Henry Martin’s opener.
As he wheeled off to celebrate with Luis Suarez, who provided the assist, the Miami skipper was quick to taunt the travelling supporters.
Throughout the first half, Messi was subject to jeers and boos, with the veteran forward proceeding to give it back in perfect fashion.
Messi, who scored against Mexico during Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning campaign, turned around and pointed to his name on the back of his shirt.
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He then patted Inter’s club crest, before sticking three fingers up in the air.
It’s a sign that many have interpreted to be the number of World Cups that Argentina have won for the first time in 1978, while their second triumph came in Mexico in 1986.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner then decided to stick the knife in even further by moving his hand into a fist shape, which could represent the zero titles Mexico have won on the grand stage.
-Social media was left stunned by Messi’s antics, with the player so often reserved both on and off the pitch.
Taking to X, one user posted: “Never thought Messi would do something like that.”
Another messaged: “New exciting side of Messi after years of being humble… kind of cool actually.”
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A third added: “Messi knows how to silence the critics! A legendary response that shows his confidence and pride for Argentina!”
This supporter then quipped: “He is in his villain arc now.”
Meanwhile another simply stated: “My goat is becoming savage.”
Inter’s friendly with Club America turned into a four-goal thriller with the match eventually going to penalties.
The MLS side eventually won 3-2 on penalties to get their pre-season off to the perfect start.
Javier Mascherano’s side have four friendlies left to prepare for the new campaign ahead of their league opener against New York City on February 22.
