Lionel Messi Could Be Suspended for Semi-final Against Croatia
FIFA have started a disciplinary activity against Messi after he reprimanded match official Antonio Mateu Lahoz. Now, it is anticipated that FIFA’s disciplinary committee will soon publish a comment on the matter. Argentina and the Netherlands fought hard in the quarterfinal matchup, which featured two formidable teams. The game’s lack of discipline was demonstrated by the numerous incidents involving players and coaching staff from both teams.
Consequently, Antonio Mateu Lahoz, the referee, was compelled to issue 16 yellow cards. In addition to verbal disagreements, participants from both teams frequently approached one another during and after fights. Following the penalty shootout, the Netherlands’ Denzel Dumfries received two yellow cards and was expelled from the field. Lionel Messi and Argentine goalkeeper Emi Martinez criticized referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz after the game.
Following a disagreement over rulings with the referee, the Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) player is being closely followed by FIFA. Argentina conceded a late equalizer to tie the game at 2-2, forcing the game into extra time, and Messi received a caution in the 10th minute of the second half.
In response, Messi stated that he does not wish to discuss referees because “they will sanction you, but we were scared before the game because we knew what was coming [with Mateu Lahoz].” I am unable to express my opinion, but FIFA must investigate this. That kind of referee cannot be used in this game because he is not up to the task.”
The provision for punishment is determined by the severity of the fault cited by the referee; If the FIFA disciplinary committee finds that Messi broke a lot of rules, he could be punished, like being banned from a game. However, if he has not broken any rules, he may receive a warning for his behavior in the future and be eligible to play Croatia in the semifinal match.
Along with Marcos Acuna and Gonzalo Montiel, Messi would become the third player on the Argentine team to be suspended for the semifinal match. At Lusail Stadium on Friday, Argentina defeated the Netherlands 4-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw, setting a World Cup record for the most yellow cards given in a single match.
The Argentina captain Lionel Messi is currently in great form. He has scored four goals and dished out two assists already ahead of the semi-final match.
Argentina coach Lionel Scolari has said in an interview that Messi would play for his heart’s content and believes this World Cup would be his last considering he is 35 already.
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