Frustrated Hongkongers cry for refunds after Messi benched the entire match

Frustrated Hongkongers booed and chanted for refunds after big names - including Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez - didn’t come onto the pitch as Inter Miami beat the Hong Kong team 4:1 on Sunday. 

Many started cursing and crying for refunds after seeing the two icons remain on the bench near the end of the match, while some even left the stadium before the final whistle. 

They also crossed their arms and gave the thumb-down gesture. 

However, the night will remain unforgettable for one pitch invader after he failed to run past security guards but successfully got Miami's co-owner David Beckham’s signature after kneeling. 

Another was not so lucky as he was caught and escorted off the pitch.

At the post-match press conference, Miami’s coach Gerardo Martino apologized and called for citizens’ understanding, saying that the risk was too big to field Messi and Suarez. 

“The medical team has been assessing Messi’s situation everyday and he also joined yesterday’s training session. Yet, the decision [to not field Messi] was made in the afternoon after a final health assessment this morning,” Martino said. 

Messi has inflammation in adductor, Martino added. 

Hong Kong’s captain Yapp Hung-fai said it was a regret that the team didn’t get to play against Messi, but noted that Miami still has other quality footballers. 

Hong Kong’s coach Jorn Andersen said he and the team only focused on winning the game and recognized players’ efforts in scoring the equalizer in the first half.  

The government said it shares the same disappointment for not seeing Messi play. "The organizers owe fans an explanation," it said. 

The government also said the Major Sports Events Committee will follow up on the matter in accordance with clauses of the agreement and may reduce sponsor funding over Messi's absence on the pitch. 

Suarez was seen warming up shortly, but Messi remained on the bench the entire game. 

Still, Messi's former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba were substituted to replace David Ruiz and Noah Allen in the 63rd minute. 

Alba almost scored, but his shot was deflected.   

(Neo Tsim)

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