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International Business Times
International Business Times
World
AFP News

Messi Hong Kong No-show Sparks Wave Of Outrage In China

Lionel Messi Hong Kong China Regina Ip Beijing Football Weibo
Enthusiasts who paid upwards of 4,800 Hong Kong dollars ($500) to see Messi chanted "Refund!" and gave thumbs-down signs (Credit: AFP)

Lionel Messi's no-show at a match in Hong Kong has triggered a surge of online outrage in the city and in mainland China, with the football superstar accused of seeking to embarrass Beijing -- or even engaging in a sinister foreign plot.

The Argentine ace and his team Inter Miami sparked fury in Hong Kong from fans on Sunday when he did not play in a friendly, citing injury.

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