Messi Fined for Slap on Opponent

Lionel Messi has been fined by Major League Soccer for hitting Philadelphia player Quinn Sullivan in the neck during their 2-2 match. The league's disciplinary committee stated the fine was for violating league guidelines regarding hands on face/head/neck of an opponent. Messi's teammate Ian Fray was also fined for the same type of offense. extract-html.com

The incident occurred in overtime during an intense match when Messi approached mid-circle to confront Sullivan. After a brief exchange, Messi hit Sullivan, and the players stood face-to-face in a tense position. Referee Filip Dujic, who didn't see the incident, didn't issue any cards at that time but later ejected Cavan Sullivan and Inter Miami's Yannick Bright after a scuffle.