Messi Clashes With Opponent In Tunnel, Scores Another Brace!

Lionel Messi has made headlines in the United States after scoring a second consecutive brace for Inter Miami, and also for an apparent clash with an opponent in the tunnel at half-time.

The 36-year-old found the back of the net twice for the Herons in their 3-1 victory over Orlando City in the Leagues Cup on Thursday morning, taking his overall tally to five goals in just three appearances.

Seven yellow cards were dished out by the referee in charge, with Messi the first to have his name taken following a late challenge on Uruguayan midfielder Cesar Araujo in the 21st minute at the DRV PNK Stadium. Tensions on the field escalated between Messi and his opponent, and continued as the two teams made their way down the tunnel at the half-time interval, according to The Athletic.

Argentina's captain put the Florida-based outfit ahead just seven minutes into the encounter, before Araujo equalised for Orlando 10 minutes later.

Inter Miami went in front again just after the break following Josef Martinez's converted penalty, before Messi added his second of the night in the 72nd minute to secure victory.

Ex-Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba made his debut for the club when he came on as a second-half substitute, while Sergio Busquets played the full game.