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Messi's Fury: Heated Words for Referee Revealed!
12 Jul
Summary
- Messi confronted referee Joao Pinheiro during the Argentina-Switzerland match.
- The star player was heard telling the referee to speak respectfully to him.
- This incident adds to several controversial moments for Messi in the tournament.
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal match, where Argentina secured a 3-1 victory against Switzerland, Lionel Messi was observed engaging in a heated exchange with referee Joao Pinheiro. The Argentinian captain was heard directing phrases such as, "Talk to me properly. Do not disrespect me, I talk to you respectfully," towards the official. This confrontation marks another controversial moment for Messi in the ongoing tournament.
This incident follows previous controversies. Earlier in the Round of 16, Argentina's dramatic 3-2 win against Egypt was marred by a disallowed Egyptian goal following a VAR review. Egypt's coach blamed Messi for the decision. Additionally, in a group stage match against Algeria, Messi's studs-up challenge on Aïssa Mandi was not deemed a red card offense by the referee or VAR, drawing comparisons to other incidents and leading to an official complaint from the Algerian Football Federation.
