A Nigerian football supporter has taken to social media to react with amusement after Inter Miami goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo conceded a bizarre own goal during a Major League Soccer (MLS) match against Chicago Fire. The blunder, which occurred in the 18th minute of the game at Nu Stadium, saw defender Ian Fray play a routine back-pass to Ríos Novo, but the goalkeeper completely misjudged the ball, allowing it to roll under his foot and into the net.
Goalkeeper's Howler Hands Chicago Fire the Lead
The incident unfolded when Inter Miami defender Ian Fray sent a slow, seemingly harmless back-pass to goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo. Instead of clearing the ball, Ríos Novo swung his foot and missed it entirely, with the ball slipping through his legs and rolling into the back of the net. The own goal gifted Chicago Fire an unexpected 1-0 lead early in the match, sparking widespread reactions online.
Reacting to the blunder, a Nigerian man with the X username @_snowville shared a video of the goal and jokingly linked the mistake to Inter Miami's star player, Lionel Messi. He said: "Did y’all see the own goal the Inter Miami GK did overnight? Repercussions don de affect Lionel Messi. ??"
Social Media Reactions Highlight Messi's Influence
The post quickly gained traction, drawing comments from football supporters who saw humor in the situation while also praising Messi's achievements with the club. User @son_of_grace212 remarked: "See the team Messi plays with? Yet he still managed to win 4 trophies with them considering they haven’t even won anything in their history before."
Another user, @HELALI_8, noted: "Their numerous mistakes highlighted Messi's greatness. No one can win the league with these players." Meanwhile, @ajayiyout commented: "Once Messi comes back, they will suddenly know how to play."
Messi's Absence and Recent Argentina Return
The own goal came during a period when Lionel Messi was absent from Inter Miami's lineup, having recently returned to Argentina after the 2026 World Cup final. According to Legit.ng, Argentina's World Cup squad landed home to a red carpet and military band welcome after losing the final to Spain in New Jersey. Messi was among several players absent from the flight back, with the Argentine Football Association confirming the absences.
The incident adds to a series of defensive lapses by Inter Miami, which have often been overshadowed by Messi's brilliance on the field. Fans continue to debate the team's performance without their star player, with many suggesting that his presence elevates the entire squad.
