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International Business Times
International Business Times
World
AFP News

Messi Denies Political Snub Was Behind Hong Kong No-show

Lionel Messi Hong Kong China Weibo Inter Miami
Lionel Messi stayed on the bench throughout Inter Miami's 4-1 win against a Hong Kong select XI on February 4 (Credit: AFP)

Lionel Messi denied his absence from a match in Hong Kong two weeks ago that angered China was a political snub, but was caused by an injury.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is idolized by fans in China but stayed on the bench during Inter Miami's 4-1 win in a pre-season tour match against a Hong Kong select XI on February 4.

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