Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 3-1 victory against Switzerland, securing a spot in the semifinals of the World Cup. Throughout the match, Messi exhibited notable frustration over the referee’s decisions, with fans learning exactly what he communicated to the official.
Argentina is set to face England in the semifinals on Wednesday, July 15, at 22:00. The other semifinal will feature France against Spain on Tuesday, July 14, also at 22:00.
During the match, Messi had several tense exchanges with Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro. The captain of Argentina was not only frustrated by the calls made on the field but also by the tone used by the referee when addressing him and his teammates.
According to reports from Argentina, Messi repeatedly engaged with the referee during the game, at one point urging him to change his demeanor. The South American star felt that Pinheiro’s approach was excessively authoritative and disrespectful.
What Lionel Messi said to the referee during Argentina vs Switzerland
As the leader of the team, Messi asserted to the referee that he desired a dialogue rooted in mutual respect.
“Speak to me properly. Do not treat me disrespectfully! I speak to you respectfully,” Messi reportedly exclaimed to the referee, according to espn.com.ar.
It wasn’t just Messi who had comments about the officiating; Swiss players also questioned Pinheiro’s handling of the match, criticizing the ejection of Embolo.
Messi makes history once again
Even though he did not score, Messi was pivotal for Argentina, providing the assist for Alexis Mac Allister’s opening goal. This assist marked a new record for Messi, bringing his total to 11 assists in World Cup history, making him the all-time leading playmaker in the tournament, surpassing Fritz Walter’s previous record.
