Why Messi refused to take penalty as Inter Miami defeated Orlando City 3-1

Inter Miami forward, Lionel Messi, turned down the chance to play a penalty during their 3-1 win over Orlando City in the Leagues Cup.

Messi has already scored five times in his first three matches for the MLS side.

Against Orlando, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner started alongside Josef Martinez, who was yet to find the back of the net for the club since he joined.

Martinez won a penalty early in the second half and although most people present at DRV PNK Stadium expected Messi to step up from 12 yards, he decided to pass it over to the Venezuelan.

Martinez picked up the ball and slotted it past Orlando City goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.

Messi, however, ended the night with two goals.

The UK Mirror reports that Messi is Inter's designated penalty taker, but the Argentina captain knew how much a goal would mean to Martinez and the team.