The recent friendly match between Inter Miami and Hong Kong Stars Club, where Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez were expected to play, stirred controversy as both players remained on the bench. Despite Coach Tata Martino’s assurance to let Messi and Suarez play as much as possible, their absence during the match disappointed Hong Kong fans, who had spent substantial amounts on tickets, including black market purchases.

In response to the frustration, spectators shouted “Pay, pay!” during extra time, expressing their discontent. The Hong Kong government, initially committed to providing $2 million in funding for the program, expressed disappointment and Һιnted at the possibility of withholding the disbursement due to the fans’ dissatisfaction and the unfulfilled promises made by Inter Miami.

The Hong Kong government’s discontent with the situation reflects the broader disappointment among fans who had eagerly anticipated the presence of Messi and Suarez in the match. The financial commitment of $2 million, initially assured for the event, is now at гιꜱk of not being disbursed, potentially impacting the overall funding for the program, which had previously secured financial support from foundations and stadium sponsors. 

The incident adds to the government’s challenges in regaining the trust of the public, following previous refusals from Coldplay and Taylor Swift to perform in Hong Kong, choosing instead to relocate their shows to Singapore.