Giannis vs Messi: Nigerian Freak does Ronaldo's SIU celebration as his Nashville side loses on penalties to Inter Miami

Greek-Nigerian professional basketball player Giannis Sina Ugo Antetokounmpo rose to the top of the trends on social media.

Giannis before the final already sent a warning to Inter Miami declaring his support for Nashville.

Before Lionel Messi led Inter Miami CF to a Leagues Cup victory over Nashville SC, fans were treated to one of the most famous celebrations in sports.

Nashville SC minority owner and Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo displayed his football skills to thrill fans in attendance before the Leagues Cup final.

At GEODIS Park in Nashville, the two-time NBA MVP blasted a kick into an empty net and then ran to the center of the field to execute Cristiano Ronaldo's famous "SIU" celebration.

Messi put Giannis' distraction away to help Inter Miami defeat Nashville on penalties to win the Leagues Cup.

However, following Inter Miami's League Cup victory, Messi now has 44 trophies and is the most decorated player in the history of the sport.

After the game, Messi received the Leagues Cup best player and top scorer awards.

Before the game, Giannis stated that he admires Messi for all he has accomplished in football.

Giannis, who welcomed Messi when he arrived in the MLS, explained that as a minority owner of Nashville, he has to root against the Argentine.

Speaking to Apple TV he said, “Having Lionel Messi playing against us, this is probably the first time in my life rooting against him.”

After the game, Giannis praised the Argentine with a statement on social media that said, "Messi. Respect."

He also had words of encouragement for his team despite the loss, he added, "Didn’t get the results we wanted but what a great atmosphere,

@NashvilleSC we will be back stronger and better than ever⚽️🙏🏽😃."

Giannis, who recently visited Nigeria, is expected to miss the FIBA Men's World Cup while Messi returns to action with Inter Miami when they take on Cincinnati in a US Open Cup fixture scheduled for Thursday, August 24, 2023.