Chinese officials have canceled two friendly matches for Argentina that were scheduled to be played in the Asian country after Lionel Messi did not play for Inter Miami in a match in Hong Kong.
The world champion is scheduled to face Nigeria in Hangzhou and Ivory Coast in Beijing next March.
Fans in China were angry when the Argentina captain did not play for his club vs. Hong Kong XI Sunday.
Messi (36 years old) said that he cannot play due to a thigh injury.
However, his lack of appearance sparked widespread criticism in China when he came off the bench three days later against Vissel Kobe in Japan.
“Beijing is not currently planning to organize the match in which Lionel Messi was scheduled to participate,” the Beijing Football Association said on Saturday.
When the Hangzhou match was canceled on Friday, their sports office said: “Given the reasons known to everyone, and according to the relevant authorities, the conditions for holding the event are not met.”
Fans in Hong Kong mocked David Beckham, co-owner of Inter Miami, and chanted for their money back after Messi did not take to the field.
They have since been promised a 50% refund by match organizers Tatler Asia.
