Michael celebrated in the same way Cristiano Ronaldo did after scoring in Al Hilal’s 4-3 friendly win over Inter Miami on January 30.
Michael scored for Inter Miami in the 44th minute at Kingdom Arena in Saudi Arabia, capitalizing on goalie Drake Callender’s sluggish start. Following the score, the Al Hilal striker dashed to the corner of the pitch and executed Cristiano Ronaldo’s signature “Siu” celebration.
This was not an attempt to ridicule Messi, but rather a question of choice for Michael. The 1996-born striker already celebrated “Siu” against Ronaldo in the Arab Cup earlier this season.
Al Hilal defeated Inter Miami 4-3 with to Michael’s header, goals from Aleksandar Mitrovic (10′), Al Hamdan (13′), and Malcom (88′), extending their undefeated record to 28 games. Mitrovic and his colleagues have won each of their past 20 games in all competitions.
Inter Miami’s goals were scored by Luis Suarez (34′), Lionel Messi (54′ – penalty), and David Ruiz (55′). In the first half, Messi also scored for the home side. However, VAR intervened and deprived “El Pulga” of his delight when Suarez was deemed offside during the attacking motion.
The coach removed Messi from the game in the 88th minute. Al Hilal scored the winning goal 4-3 just after the Argentine superstar exited the pitch, thanks to a header from former Barcelona midfielder Malcom.
Inter Miami’s defense had a horrible day. If the home team’s forwards had been more accurate with their finishing, the CONCACAF Champions League champions would not have allowed four goals.
Messi and his colleagues will relax for two days before playing a friendly against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr. CR7 has healed and might appear on February 1.
