https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGHY0XLxVGI
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami returned from a profitable journey to Saudi Arabia, but their gains were limited. Despite a friendly match against Saudi Pro League leaders Al Hilal ending in a 4-3 loss for the David Beckham-owned team, they faced further embarrassment against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr.
The highly anticipated match, dubbed ‘The Last Dance’ between Messi and Ronaldo, hailed as the top players of the past decade, failed to meet expectations due to Ronaldo’s injury and Messi’s benching.
Despite fans shelling out up to £8,840 for tickets, according to SeatPick, and an additional £14 for streaming, the game didn’t feature the much-awaited showdown.
However, spectators at the Kingdom Arena were treated to a thrilling spectacle nonetheless. Al Nassr dominated their American opponents, securing a commanding 6-0 victory, with a three-goal lead within the opening 12 minutes.
In a scene filled with embarrassment, former Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte netted a goal from his own half, while veteran Al Nassr player Talisca completed a hat-trick and mimicked Ronaldo’s famous ‘SIUUU’ celebration.
Ronaldo observed the spectacle from a VIP box, evidently thrilled, amidst rumors circulating about his potential contract extension in Riyadh.
Meanwhile, Messi must have questioned his presence, as manager Tata Martino only brought him in when the score stood at 6-0 with just eight minutes remaining.
The World Cup-winning captain appeared somewhat embarrassed as Miami once again delivered a disappointing performance, despite their marquee signings including Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets