Watch Lionel Messi Stick Up For Inter Miami Teammate Noah Allen After Foul By Philadelphia's Jose Martinez

Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi showed his protective side during Tuesday's 4-1 win over Philadelphia Union in the Leagues Cup semi-finals.

Messi took exception to Philadelphia midfielder Jose Martinez's behavior towards 19-year-old Noah Allen in second-half added time.

Venezuela international Martinez fouled Allen near the touchline before attempting to kick the ball from under the teenager as he lay on the ground.

Martinez then towered over Allen and made a slapping motion towards the Miami player's outstretched right arm.

Moments later, Messi entered the scene.

Messi got into Martinez's face and gave him a death stare before referee Daniel Quintero intervened.

During their brief head-to-head, Messi said something to Martinez in Spanish.

According to the Daily Mail, Messi asked Martinez: "How are you going to kick him to the ground like that?"

Messi had earlier scored his ninth goal in six games for Miami with a fine strike from 30 yards.

Josef Martinez, Jordi Alba and David Ruiz also netted for the away side, with Alejandro Bedoya scoring a consolation goal for Philadelphia.

Miami will now face Nashville in the Leagues Cup final on Sunday.