Thrilling Inter Miami vs NYCFC Draw: Messi Controversy
A thrilling 2-2 MLS draw between Inter Miami and NYCFC saw Mitja Ilenic mock Messi with Ronaldo’s celebration, sparking huge controversy. Discover the details of this exciting match and the reactions it ignited among fans!
2/24/20252 min read
Cristiano Ronaldo's Iconic Celebration as Lionel Messi Faces Heated Moments in MLS Thriller
Inter Miami vs. New York City Ends in a Dramatic 2-2 Draw ⚽🔥
The 2025 MLS season kicked off in electrifying fashion as Inter Miami and New York City FC battled to a thrilling 2-2 draw on Sunday night. However, the real buzz came from a dramatic goal celebration that sparked controversy, involving two of the biggest names in football—Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Mitja Ilenic Channels His Inner Ronaldo 💥👑
New York City FC’s rising star Mitja Ilenic stole the headlines, not just for scoring a crucial goal but for the way he celebrated. The 20-year-old defender marked his strike by performing Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siuu’ celebration—right in front of none other than Lionel Messi.
🗣 Ilenic expressed his delight post-match:
“I'm a big fan of Cristiano, to be honest. That was basically my dream: to do it in front of Messi. I would say it also shows my confidence, and I’m super, super happy about it.”
The bold move added fuel to the ongoing Messi-Ronaldo rivalry, leaving fans divided over the audacious act.
Messi’s Frustration Boils Over in Post-Match Confrontation 😠🔥
While Messi managed to get on the scoresheet, his night was far from smooth. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was visibly frustrated after the match, engaging in a heated confrontation with referee Rosendo Mendoza.
Key Match Stats 📊
Inter Miami Goals: Tomas Aviles (5’), Telasco Segovia (100’)
New York City FC Goals: Mitja Ilenic (48’), Alonso Martinez (73’)
Possession: Inter Miami 49% | NYCFC 51%
Shots on Target: Inter Miami 5 | NYCFC 7
Red Cards: Tomas Aviles (Inter Miami, 27’)
How the Drama Unfolded 🎭⚽
✅ 5’ – Tomas Aviles puts Inter Miami ahead early.
✅ 27’ – Aviles is sent off, reducing Miami to 10 men.
✅ 48’ – Ilenic equalizes and performs Ronaldo’s ‘Siuu’ celebration.
✅ 73’ – Alonso Martinez gives NYCFC the lead.
✅ 100’ – Segovia scores a last-gasp equalizer to secure a draw for Miami.
Ronaldo vs. Messi: The Rivalry Continues 🐐⚔️
While Cristiano Ronaldo wasn’t present, his influence loomed large over the match. The Ronaldo-Messi rivalry, spanning over a decade, continues to generate unmatched excitement in world football.
Fans React to the Drama 🎙️📢
Football fans around the world took to social media to debate the celebration: 🔹 “Ilenic doing the ‘Siuu’ in front of Messi? That’s legendary!”
🔹 “Messi looked furious after the match! The rivalry never dies.”
🔹 “Ilenic just made himself a hero for all Ronaldo fans.”
What’s Next for Messi & Inter Miami? 🚀
Inter Miami will look to bounce back from this setback as they gear up for their next MLS fixture. Meanwhile, fans will keep an eye on Messi’s response to the incident and whether the rivalry finds its next chapter.
🔥 Stay tuned to Kingcrossbarr.com for all the latest football news, updates, and match analysis! ⚽📢