Lionel Messi took over Hong Kong in the build-up to their friendly in the country, with fans going wild for the Argentine and David Beckham.
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- Messi did not play against Hong Kong
- Huge promotional push by adidas
- Beckham also worshipped by fans
- Getty
WHAT HAPPENED?
Inter Miami and adidas have made a major promotional push in Hong Kong in the build-up to their friendly with a select XI of the league's players. They won the game 4-1 and beforehand, a traditional boat was bedecked in Messi's image. Prior to the game, fans also went wild for Herons owner David Beckham and boy-band Mirror.
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THE GOSSIP
Inter Miami have been everywhere in Hong Kong, with video screens featuring Messi's image and pop-up stores, where fans can buy shirts and other merchandise, set up around the city. Messi has not visited Hong Kong in a decade, and while fans can also buy shirts featuring the names of Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez, one has to think Messi will be outstripping his pals.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Messi has been seen as a vital part of Hong Kong's tourism strategy, with the government hoping his and Inter Miami's presence will promote the area, per Marketing-Interactive. That he didn't even step foot on the pitch appears to matter little.
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- Getty Images
WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI?
Inter Miami beat a Hong Kong XI on Sunday and continue their preparation for the 2024/25 season with another friendly on Wednesday, against Japanese side Vissel Kobe. They then play Messi's former club Newell's Old Boys.