“Do Not Disrespect Me” - Lionel Messi Reportedly Tells Portuguese Referee During Tense Moment in Argentina vs Switzerland
Messi confronted Joao Pinheiro after a disputed free kick as Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 in extra time and advanced to the semifinals.
- On Sunday, Argentina captain Lionel Messi engaged in a heated exchange with Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro during the 2026 World Cup quarterfinal against Switzerland, with live broadcast footage capturing the confrontation.
- The match appeared destined for a penalty shootout until the 72nd minute, when a VAR review sparked outrage by controversially expelling Swiss forward Breel Embolo, reducing Switzerland to ten men.
- During the confrontation, Messi told Pinheiro, "Don't disrespect me. I speak to you with respect, so don't disrespect me," while the referee remained composed and issued no disciplinary cards.
- With a man advantage, Argentina struck twice in extra time with goals from Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez, and Lautaro Martinez, securing a 3-1 victory and eliminating the ten-man Swiss side.
- The defending champions will now face England on Thursday, July 16, in Atlanta, as Argentina advances to the World Cup semifinals following their victory over Switzerland.
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78 Articles
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Lionel Messi, captain of Argentina, reproached a misdemeanor and questioned the way in which the referee answered him in this World Cup match.
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