Messi scores, La Familia protests as Inter Miami hunts for home win vs Portland
But the stadium was quieter and less colorful than usual as La Familia, Inter Miami’s collection of ardent supporters’ groups, staged a protest because they felt the players have not shown them enough respect and gratitude since they moved to the new venue, according to multiple members of the group.
La Familia members typically bang drums and sing their hearts out from opening the closing whistle but decided to stay quiet and brought no flags or instruments to the game. They said the players have walked off the field and headed straight to the locker room after the four home games so far without acknowledging them. The only player who took time to wave at them was Noah Allen.
“The players have shown no respect to La Familia, have not come to our stand after the games when we have guys come in as early as 11 a.m. to set up our tailgate and set up our flags inside the stadium,” said JC Aviles of the Southern Legion supporter group. “Not to mention, we sing our hearts out for 90-plus minutes. The only player that came to say hi was Noah Allen and everyone else goes straight to the locker room. Not cool!”