da 888： Lionel Messi criticized a new MLS sporting initiative during Inter Miami's match with CF Montreal Saturday evening.

da luck： Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Miami defeat CF MTL 3-2Messi lashes out on-camera over new MLS ruleRojas scored Messi-like free kickWHAT HAPPENED?

Minutes before the halftime whistle, Messi was the victim of a tackle by Montreal's George Campbell in the 43rd minute, and as a result he needed to be treated on the pitch.

However, with new sporting initiatives being enacted in 2024, the Argentine had to leave the pitch and was not allowed to return for two minutes as a result of taking more than 15 seconds to get up from the tackle.

Not thrilled with the rule, Messi found a sideline camera, and stated how he really felt about the rule to the entire world.

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The Argentine said "with this type of rule, we are doing badly."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Being absent for the pitch for two minutes, and CF Montreal already holding a 2-0 lead at the time, things suddenly looked bad for the Herons. However, during his sidelined absence on the pitch, Matias Rojas stepped up and scored a legitimate goal-of-the-season contender with a sensational free kick.

It was the first of three goals Miami scored on the night, coming back to defeat CF MTL 3-2 on the road in Canada.

The Argentine was not allowed back on the pitch until the 45th minute, but at least the Paraguayan stepped up during his absence, and while Miami was briefly playing with 10 men.

Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR MESSI AND MIAMI?

The Herons will take on South Florida rivals Orlando City Wednesday evening as a part of MLS Rivalry Week. The Herons will look to continue their hot streak of form while also pulling the double on the Lions this spring.