Lionel Messi: Argentina star had neck grabbed by pitch invader after Ecuador game

Lionel Messi was in the starting lineup as Argentina drew with Ecuador in their World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday evening.

The Argentine played the full 90 minutes as the two sides drew 1-1.

Julian Alvarez’s 24th minute goal looked to have given Argentina a narrow victory.

But Enner Valencia’s leveller in the third minute of stoppage-time ensured both sides shared the spoils.

Following the final whistle, Messi was involved in an exchange with a pitch invader.

Messi, being one of the greatest players ever, has admirers from all over the globe.

And an Ecuador fan couldn’t contain themselves as they sprinted on to the pitch after the game to get a selfie with Messi.

The supporter, though, wasn’t exactly gentle as they grabbed Messi by the neck.

pic.twitter.com/qxSM8iE0JH

The 34-year-old was visibly uncomfortable. He did not look happy at all.

The fan was then caught by security and subsequently ushered away. The supporter has since posted a video of their point of view and you can watch it below…

This Ecuador fan grabbed Lionel Messi after running onto the pitch