Lionel Messi’s bodyguard was finally defeated as a pitch invader managed to get their hands on the Inter Miami star.

 

Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, Yassine Chueko, was finally beaten by a pitch-invading fan on Sunday after taking a tumble while trying to stop the supporter from reaching him.

Inter Miami are currently in the process of working through their pre-season programme ahead of the 2025 MLS campaign. They are taking a tour of the Americas, with Panamanian side Sporting San Miguelito the latest side to cross their path.

Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi was once again the star attraction as Inter Miami headed out on the road. As expected, adoring fans were eager to get as close to their hero as possible.

Messi’s famous bodyguard was seen patrolling the side of the pitch as usual, ready to pounce on any supporter trying to sprint onto the pitch to grab a selfie with their idol. Chueko has built a reputation for “spawning out of nowhere” and tackling fans.

But for the first time ever, he was surprisingly beaten and knocked to the floor.

What Happened?

A fan in Panama decided to try his luck, despite Chueko being on guard to protect the World Cup winner.  However, this time, the bodyguard was beaten on this occasion. The pitch invader, wearing a ‘Messi 10’ shirt, slipped on the surface and dodged the bodyguard’s tackle, accidentally sending him tumbling to the deck as well by wiping out his leg.

The fan quickly bounced back up and was able to briefly hug Messi before being dragged away by the security guard.

 

Social media footage captured the rare moment, with fans reacting to Chueko’s slip-up, though he appeared to smile subtly as he recovered.

Watch Video Here

Chueko, a former US soldier and MMA fighter, has gone viral in the past for his relentless protection of Messi, closely patrolling the touchline during MLS matches. The bodyguard, who previously worked with the Argentine star at PSG, was reportedly hired by David Beckham to ensure Messi’s safety following his high-profile move to Miami in 2023.