Lionel Messi faces a one-match suspension after receiving a controversial yellow card against Cincinnati. The Inter Miami captain is expected to miss the important clash against New England Revolution.

Messi Suspended After Controversial Yellow Card Against Cincinnati

Lionel Messi is set to miss Inter Miami’s next MLS match after receiving a controversial yellow card during the 2-2 draw against FC Cincinnati on October 28.

The Argentine superstar was booked in the 44th minute after protesting to referee Armando Villarreal.

The decision immediately caused frustration among fans and commentators.

More importantly, it was Messi’s fifth yellow card of the MLS season, triggering an automatic one-match suspension.

Messi receives controversial yellow card

The incident happened shortly before half-time when Messi was involved in a challenge with Cincinnati defender Samuel Gidi.

After the opposing player went down, Messi approached the referee and appeared unhappy about the delay in restarting the game.

Referee Armando Villarreal responded by showing the Inter Miami captain a yellow card.

According to Heavy Sports, commentators on Apple TV’s Spanish-language broadcast questioned whether the incident deserved a booking.

The decision also sparked criticism from supporters on social media.

Messi to miss important New England clash

According to AS, Messi’s latest booking was his fifth yellow card of the 2026 MLS season.

Under MLS rules, players who receive five yellow cards face a one-match suspension.

As a result, Messi is expected to miss Inter Miami’s away match against New England Revolution on November 1.

The absence comes at a difficult moment, with Inter Miami fighting for a higher position in the Eastern Conference before the playoffs.

Messi has scored 25 MLS goals this season and remains one of the team’s most important attacking players.

Inter Miami face major challenge without Messi

Inter Miami were held to a dramatic 2-2 draw by Cincinnati, with Riquelme Fillipi scoring a late equaliser.

Messi failed to score, and his yellow card has now created another problem for the club.

However, the Argentine was not sent off. His suspension comes from accumulating yellow cards rather than receiving a red card.

With the regular season approaching its final matches, Inter Miami must now prepare for a crucial game against New England without their biggest star.

The controversial decision could prove costly as Miami continue their battle for a strong position heading into the MLS playoffs.