Soccer fans did not have to wait long for Lionel Messi to score his first goal of 2025. The Argentinean forward scored in the 34th minute of Inter Miami CF’s first preseason match against Club America of Mexico in Las Vegas. He celebrated the goal in what appeared to be a barbaric gesture aimed at the Mexican fans. Messi has been known for his calm demeanor throughout his career.

Most of his 850 career goals were met with muted celebrations, with few exceptions. His favorite motion is a simple two-handed point to the sky in honor of his grandmother, though he has added some Marvel-themed celebrations to keep his kids entertained during his time in Major League Soccer.

But Saturday night in Nevada was a different story. Messi acknowledged one of the fiercest rivalries that have existed between Argentina and him during his career.

Messi made a quick three-finger motion at himself before using a zero to point at the Club America fans. It appeared to be an allusion to Argentina’s three World Cup trophies (1978, 1986, and 2022) and Mexico’s zero. In 1986, La Albiceleste won the competition on Mexican soil.

Incredulously, one fan continued, “That was so unlike him LOL I’m in shock ahahah.” Another said, “He’s telling Mexican fans that Argentina has three stars and they have zero, this is a new Messi.”

One fan commented, “Henry needs to hit his signature celebration on Messi for that disrespect Messi did to the Mexican fans,” urging the Club America star to respond. One commentator on X stated, “Messi has traumatized these Mexicans.”

Messi is an important player in the rivalry because of his affinity with Mexico, even though Argentina has only won one of its three World Cup titles. He has scored five goals in his career, including three in the World Cup final, in six meetings with El Tri. His game-changing goal against Mexico at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar changed the trajectory of the tournament for both teams.

Although it is thought to have been the goal that spurred Argentina, the eventual champion, to triumph following its loss to Saudi Arabia in the first game, it was also crucial in Mexico’s elimination from the group stage.