Emmanuel Obi
Major League Soccer, MLS, has fined Inter Miami stars Lionel Messi and defender Tomas Aviles, also known as Fray, for separate stoppage-time incidents involving Philadelphia Union’s Quinn Sullivan during a fiery 2-2 draw on Saturday.
The league announced the disciplinary action on Tuesday, August 19, after reviewing footage from the match at Chase Stadium.
Messi was sanctioned for a confrontation with Sullivan in added time. Video showed the Argentine forward grabbing the back of Sullivan’s neck during a heated exchange before officials intervened to separate both players.
Aviles, nicknamed “Fray”, was also fined for slapping Sullivan in the face during a separate stoppage-time clash as tensions boiled over at the end of the game.
MLS did not disclose the amount of the fines, but confirmed both players will avoid suspension and remain eligible for Inter Miami’s next fixture.
The incident capped a dramatic night in Florida where Philadelphia fought back twice to earn a point. Sullivan was at the center of both late altercations as Miami players reacted to the Union’s physical approach in the closing minutes.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano said after the match that emotions ran high, but urged his players to maintain discipline.
The result leaves Inter Miami still top of the Eastern Conference standings, while Philadelphia remains in the playoff hunt.
MLS said it will continue to monitor player conduct as the regular season enters its final stretch.
