The CONCACAF Champions Cup conflict between Inter Miami and Sporting Kansas Metropolis was mired in controversy as soon as once more. Referee Marco Antonio Ortiz Nava drew consideration when he made a request to star Lionel Messi, prompting CONCACAF to impose disciplinary motion for his conduct.
Main as much as the sport, there have been heightened expectations following the match’s rescheduling resulting from excessive climate situations. Nonetheless, controversy emerged post-match when Ortiz approached Messi and appeared to ask for his shirt, a transfer that prompted discomfort inside Sporting KC’s camp.
Following an investigation, a CONCACAF spokesperson clarified that Ortiz’s unique request was for an autograph meant for a member of the family with particular wants. Regardless of the seemingly noble intention behind the motion, the group determined to take disciplinary motion.
“The referee’s conduct doesn’t align with the Confederation’s Code of Conduct for match officers and current processes for a majority of these requests. The referee has acknowledged his mistake, apologized for the incident, and accepted the disciplinary motion CONCACAF has utilized,” the CONCACAF spokeperson advised ESPN.
Sporting KC additionally raised issues with each MLS and CONCACAF relating to the scenario, in search of motion on Ortiz’s conduct. Whereas the disciplinary measures have been taken, particulars of the implications for Ortiz haven’t been made public.
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Lionel Messi units new file in match in opposition to Sporting KC for Champions Cup
Ortiz’s actions have sparked some questions, not because of the request itself, however as a result of this was the third time he had officiated a match involving Messi. Beforehand, he refereed a 3-0 Argentina win over Jamaica on September 27, 2022, forward of the World Cup, and a Champions Cup match between Nashville and Inter Miami, which led to a 2-2 draw.
Inter Miami’s subsequent sport vs. Sporting KC
The primary leg between Sporting KC and Inter Miami, initially postponed, passed off in harsh situations with a temperature of -9.4 °F (-23 °C). Regardless of the frigid climate, Messi was the difference-maker, scoring a shocking purpose together with his proper foot to offer Miami the slim 1-0 lead.
The second leg of the first spherical of the Champions Cup will happen on Tuesday, February 25, on the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, with Sporting KC now set to go to Miami for the decisive match.