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In a display of unchecked adoration for a football superstar, a young fan's exhilaration culminated in an unexpected encounter with Argentina's Lionel Messi during a friendly match in Beijing.

The incident unfolded at the Worker's Stadium in the middle of the second half on Thursday evening, where the zealous supporter, identified by his surname Di, breached the pitch in an audacious attempt to meet his idol​​.

The 18-year-old Di, donned in a jersey, darted across the field, successfully securing a brief embrace from Messi before stadium guards could intervene. His daring act, albeit a demonstration of his profound admiration for the football legend, unfortunately, attracted the attention of the local law enforcement​.

 

According to a statement from the Chaoyang District public security bureau, Di has faced administrative detention in accordance with the law. The details concerning the duration of Di's detainment remain unspecified, but the authorities have imposed a one-year ban on his attendance at stadiums​​.

The unfolding event did not dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd. An estimated 50,000 spectators had endured the scorching heat to witness Messi guide his team to a 2-0 victory against Australia, symbolizing the intense devotion of Chinese fans for international football stars. The fervor was palpable even before the match as hundreds of eager fans congregated outside the Argentinian team's hotel, hoping to catch a glimpse of their revered footballer​.

The incident has spotlighted the fervent adoration Chinese football enthusiasts harbor for Messi, an icon in the realm of football, against the backdrop of their national team's lackluster performance and an underwhelming domestic league. Di, showing remorse for his actions, has accepted his punishment, reflecting a somber turn to his impassioned quest to meet his football hero​​.

While his actions were reckless, Di's incident underscores the powerful allure of international football figures like Messi in China and the desperate lengths fans are willing to go to express their admiration.

Note: Further updates on Di's detainment situation are awaited as local authorities have yet to release further details.