Messi helps set a record for audience attendance despite playing away

The stands were packed with spectators watching Messi play on April 20 - Photo: REUTERS

Early morning on April 20, Messi and Inter Miami visited Huntington Bank Field of Columbus Crew Club in MLS. Columbus Crew's headquarters is located in Columbus, Ohio.

Their home stadium is called Lower.com Field. But to accommodate the huge crowd that will come to see Messi play, Columbus Crew made a controversial decision. Specifically, they borrowed Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, a 2-hour drive away from their traditional home.

Before the game, many fans complained about having to travel too far to see their team play. And Huntington Field itself is a football stadium, rarely hosting soccer events. But everything was arranged smoothly thanks to the name Lionel Messi.

A young fan cheered for Messi with the caption: "Today is my 10th birthday. Messi, please score a goal" - Photo: REUTERS

The game drew 60,614 fans, setting a record for Columbus Crew attendance. Huntington Bank Field also set a record for non-football attendance.

Not only football fans, even basketball celebrities came to the field. According to ESPN, coach Kenny Atkinson and players Tristan Thompson of the Cleveland Cavalivers and Jerry Jeudy of the Cleveland Browns also attended this game.

And although Messi did not score or assist, he still created a frenzied atmosphere. The Argentine superstar played 90 minutes, completed 80% of the passes and created two chances for his teammates. However, he also lost possession 12 times.

The only goal scorer to help Inter Miami win 1-0 was Benjamin Cremaschi with a header in the penalty area in the 30th minute.

After the match, the American player shared: "Messi is the greatest player in football. That's why he always attracts a large crowd to watch his matches. Today we played away but felt like we were at home."

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Source: https://tuoitre.vn/messi-giup-lap-ki-luc-ve-khan-gia-du-da-san-khach-20250420082220003.htm