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Chris Smalling on Lionel Messi Collision: 'He Knew It Was an Accident'

Chris Smalling has revealed he made peace with Lionel Messi after giving the five-time Ballon d'Or winner a bloodied nose during Manchester United's 1-0 defeat to Barcelona at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

Just before the half-hour mark of United's UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Barca, Smalling left Messi on the turf after winning the ball with a robust challenge.

The Argentinian had to be treated and was bleeding heavily:

Bleacher Report

Messi with a bloody nose and eye after a collision with Smalling https://t.co/nzKZBaLhVQ

ESPN FC

Before the game, Chris Smalling told Messi to "bring it on.