Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo: Mitja Ilenic celebration, Shocking for Messi 2025 MLS

The GOAT debate between Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo has continued for over a decade, and it seems like it will never fade—especially when players bring their rivalry into games. During Inter Miami’s MLS clash against New York City FC, a moment of pure drama unfolded when New York defender Mitja Ilenic scored an equalizer and celebrated with Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siuuu’ celebration—right in front of Messi.

Cameras quickly captured Messi’s reaction, which left fans buzzing on social media. While Messi was busy orchestrating attacks and registering two assists, this unexpected tribute to his long-time rival Ronaldo stole the show.

This MLS showdown ended in a 2-2 draw, with Messi once again proving his playmaking genius, but Ilenic’s bold gesture became the biggest talking point of the match.

Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi was in shock as New York City Defender Performs Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuu’ Celebration in MLS Clash

Match Summary: Messi Shines While Ilenic Steals the Spotlight

• Inter Miami vs New York City FC ended in a 2-2 draw
• Lionel Messi provided two brilliant assists
• Mitja Ilenic celebrated his goal with Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuu’
• Messi’s reaction to the celebration went viral
• Inter Miami rescued a draw in stoppage time

Messi vs Ronaldo: The Rivalry That Never Ends

Even though Messi plays in MLS with Inter Miami and Ronaldo dominates the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr, their influence remains global. Mitja Ilenic, a young defender, didn’t just score a crucial goal—he used it as an opportunity to pay tribute to Cristiano Ronaldo in front of his long-time rival, Messi.

Speaking after the game, Ilenic openly admitted to being a huge Ronaldo fan and that doing the celebration in front of Messi was a dream come true.

“About the celebration, I’m a big fan of Cristiano, to be honest,” said Ilenic. “That was basically my dream: to do it in front of (Lionel) Messi. I would say it also shows my confidence, and I’m super, super happy about it, that it happened today.”

Fans instantly flooded social media with reactions, debating whether this was an act of disrespect or just admiration for Ronaldo.

Messi’s Influence on the Game

Despite the unexpected Ronaldo tribute, Messi continued to showcase his brilliance on the pitch.

Key Messi Moments in the Game

✅ Two assists – He set up key goals for Inter Miami
✅ Controlled the game – Even at 38, he continues to be the leader on the pitch
✅ Late-game magic – Helped Inter Miami steal a point in stoppage time

Inter Miami faced a tough challenge, especially after New York City’s Alonso Martinez capitalized on a Jordi Alba mistake to put his team ahead 2-1 in the 55th minute.

However, Messi refused to accept defeat and played a crucial role in the final goal, as Segovia scored in the dying seconds to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw.

Inter Miami Coach Praises Messi’s Impact

After the game, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano showered Messi with praise, emphasizing his relentless passion and leadership.

“He’s like a kid playing, and he doesn’t want to lose,” Mascherano said. “We need to keep him with this spirit, because it’s not just what he does on the pitch, it’s what he translates to his teammates and all that he does with his 38 years.”

Messi’s presence has completely transformed Inter Miami, and his influence extends far beyond just scoring goals. He elevates the entire team and ensures that they fight until the final whistle.

Player Ratings: Inter Miami vs New York City

Inter Miami Player Ratings

⭐ Lionel Messi (8.5/10) – Two assists, controlled the game, led Inter Miami’s late comeback.
🛡 Jordi Alba (5/10) – Costly defensive error that led to a New York City goal.
🎯 Segovia (7.5/10) – Scored a clutch equalizer in stoppage time.
🥅 Oscar Ustari (6/10) – Did his best but struggled with defensive lapses in front of him.

New York City Player Ratings

🔥 Mitja Ilenic (8/10) – Scored the equalizer, stole the spotlight with Ronaldo’s celebration.
🚀 Alonso Martinez (7.5/10) – Took advantage of Alba’s mistake to put New York ahead.
🛑 Jasper Cillessen (7/10) – Made key saves to deny Inter Miami.

Social Media Reactions: Fans Divided Over Ronaldo Celebration

Messi’s reaction to Ilenic’s Ronaldo tribute quickly went viral, sparking intense debates online.

Some fans believed Ilenic was showing respect to Ronaldo, while others thought it was disrespectful to Messi.

💬 “The GOAT debate will never end! Imagine doing Ronaldo’s celebration in front of Messi. Cold move!” – @SoccerTalk

💬 “Messi didn’t seem angry, just confused. He’s focused on winning, not celebrations!” – @MLSInsider

💬 “Ronaldo’s influence is worldwide. Even in Messi’s game, his presence is felt!” – @FutbolKing

Conclusion: Messi’s Brilliance Overshadowed by Ronaldo Tribute

While Lionel Messi’s masterclass helped Inter Miami salvage a draw, the main talking point was Mitja Ilenic’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebration.

It was a bold move from the New York City defender, and it only added fuel to the never-ending Messi vs Ronaldo rivalry.

As Inter Miami pushes forward in MLS, Messi will continue to focus on winning titles rather than engaging in off-field debates. However, this viral moment proves that the Messi vs Ronaldo era will never truly end—even when they play in different leagues.

🚨📸 Lionel Messi’s reaction after being hit by the SIUUU at home. pic.twitter.com/ktrc3C7Erq

— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) February 23, 2025

FAQs

1. What was the final score of Inter Miami vs New York City?

The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with Messi assisting twice and Segovia scoring a late equalizer.

2. Why did Mitja Ilenic celebrate with Ronaldo’s ‘Siuuu’?

Ilenic, a self-proclaimed Cristiano Ronaldo fan, said that it was his dream to do the celebration in front of Messi.

3. How did Lionel Messi perform in the game?

Messi registered two assists, controlled possession, and played a key role in Inter Miami’s comeback.

4. What did Inter Miami coach Mascherano say about Messi?

Mascherano praised Messi’s passion and leadership, stating that he plays like a kid who never wants to lose.

5. Is the Messi vs Ronaldo rivalry still relevant?

Absolutely! Even though they play in different leagues, their rivalry continues to dominate football discussions—as seen in this viral celebration moment.

Final Thoughts

Messi might have dominated the game with his assists, but Ronaldo’s presence was still felt through Ilenic’s celebration. The GOAT debate remains alive, and moments like this only add to the legacy of these two football legends.

Who do you think is the GOAT: Messi or Ronaldo? Let us know in the comments!