Argentina superstar Lionel Messi, after finishing third at the Copa America and being ruled out in a 2-1 win against defending champion Chile, has sharply attacked the South American champions and made serious allegations. Previously, the captain of the „Albiceleste“ had already boycotted the medal ceremony.
„We should not participate in this corruption. We are fed up with (…) the corruption, the referees and everything that spoils the spectacle, „said Messi after the 2-1 win against Chile. „There was a lack of respect for us in this Copa America,“ said the 32-year-old Argentine captain, who boycotted the medal ceremony.
„We could have been better, but they did not let us reach the final. Corruption and the referees do not let the fans enjoy football. That ruins the football, „said Messi. Already after the 0-2 against hosts Brazil in the semifinals, the Barcelona star had complained about injustices. „I might pay the price for my review,“ he said.
Association responds to criticism
The South American Confederation CONMEBOL responded with an official statement saying „unacceptable“ and „unfounded“ allegations. „In football you lose and sometimes you win. A cornerstone of fair play is to respect the results and refereeing decisions with respect, „the statement said.
Messi had been sent off in the 37th minute when his team won, after clashing on the line with Chilean Gary Medel. For the shuffle both players saw by referee Mario Diaz de Vivar from Paraguay Red (37). For Messi it was only the second red card of his career, the first he had conceded in his team debut in Hungary in 2005, only about a minute after his substitution because of a supposed assault.
Messi continues without a title
Already the semi-final against Brazil meant that Messi would once again remain without a title with the national team. Although he became world champion in 2005 with the U20 and brought Olympic gold in 2008, in the A team Messi has always been empty. The five-time world footballer will have another chance this year when the Copa America takes place in his home country or Colombia.
On Wednesday, he wiped out rumors of resignation: „Something new is emerging on the horizon,“ said Messi, looking at the newly formed team. „I’m doing very well with this team, and if I can help somehow, I’ll do that. If I continue to be part of it, I will do it, „said the 135-fold International.
