Argentina captain Lionel Messi has expressed dissatisfaction with the referee's conduct. In the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals, Argentina faced Switzerland in a match held in Kansas City, USA.
The match was officiated by Portuguese referee João Pinheiro. The Argentine star had a heated exchange with him on the pitch, as Messi did not appreciate the official's tone.
According to TyC Sports, Messi told the referee: "Speak politely, don't be disrespectful. Speak to me with respect, just as I have spoken to you politely."
The match was tense. In the 72nd minute, the referee sent off Switzerland's Breel Embolo, who received a second yellow card for simulation. Argentina went on to win 3-1 in extra time.
In the semi-finals, Argentina will face England. The match will take place on July 15 in Atlanta, starting at 23:00 Yerevan time.
