Messi referred to MLS disciplinary committee after Philadelphia incident

Argentine forward Lionel Messi has been placed under review by the MLS Disciplinary Committee over an incident in the closing minutes of Inter Miami's 2-2 draw with Philadelphia Union, where he was seen striking an opponent. Messi had ended his goal drought with a 26th-minute strike, but was unable to help Inter Miami hold on for the win as tensions rose late in the match. The altercation began after contact between Ian Fray and Quinn Sullivan and quickly escalated into a melee involving players from both sides. Philadelphia's Cavan Sullivan and Inter Miami's Yannick Bright were shown red cards during the scuffle, while Messi received no in-match punishment. Video footage later showed Messi striking the back of Quinn Sullivan's neck with the back of his hand and confronting him face-to-face, prompting the disciplinary review. Under MLS regulations, players who intentionally make contact with an opponent's face, head or neck in a manner that escalates a confrontation are subject to sanctions. The committee is expected to decide whether Messi will face a fine or a heavier penalty. Inter Miami are scheduled to play Toronto FC on Saturday.