The tension between Inter Miami and Monterrey during the Quarterfinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup escalated when Lionel Messi intimidated Fernando Ortiz’s technical assistant, Nicolás Sánchez. Sánchez revealed that Messi put his fist near his face, but did not actually attack him, suggesting that he was looking for a reaction rather than instigating a physical altercation.
The altercation took place after Monterrey’s victory against Inter Miami, with Sánchez witnessing how Messi and coach Gerardo Martino reacted in the locker room. Sánchez attempted to approach Messi for a photo, but security intervened as Messi was visibly upset. Martino also appeared heated, leading to a tense situation that was eventually diffused.
Martino reportedly made threatening remarks towards Sánchez, but Sánchez remained calm and did not engage in any confrontation. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Sánchez acknowledged that it was all part of the “show” of competitive sports.
The incident sheds light on the intense emotions and rivalries that can arise in high-stakes competitions like the Concacaf Champions Cup. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how this altercation affects the dynamic between the two teams moving forward.