MIAMI, USA: Lionel Messi was knocked to the ground as fans invaded the pitch during chaotic scenes at a match in Puerto Rico on Thursday. Messi was playing for Inter Miami in a friendly against Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle when supporters raced onto the field in the game’s 88th minute. While one fan demanded a selfie with the Argentine great and another asked for his shirt to be signed, a third rushed to embrace Messi from behind. A security guard tackled the fan, who dragged the World Cup winner to the floor.

A preseason game against Ecuadorian side Independiente del Valle

Inter Miami's Lionel Messi was brought to the ground by a field intruder during a preseason win over Independiente del Valle in Bayamon, Puerto Rico.