Enzo Fernandes was sent off in stoppage time during Argentina’s World Cup final against Spain, but Lionel Messi also tried to get Spain’s star player red card during the match.
Lionel Messi tried to send off Marc Cucurella in the World Cup final (Image: BBC)
Lionel Messi has been accused by Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards and Joe Hart of trying to get Marc Cucurella sent off in a despicable manner during the World Cup final. Argentina’s game against Spain at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium sparked some exciting moments after Enzo Fernandes was sent off early after a mostly lackluster 90 minutes.
The Chelsea star, who had been given a yellow for dissent early in the match, unnecessarily lunged at Pau Kulbasi in stoppage time, leaving his legs dangling in a heap on the floor. Referee Slavko Vincic had no hesitation in showing Fernandes a red card for the ironic foul, but the 25-year-old immediately protested.
However, Messi quickly tried to balance things out by sending Cucurella off during the commotion. Replays showed the Real Madrid full-back raising his hand to his face as he spoke to the Argentina captain.
Although his mouth was not completely covered, a new rule introduced by FIFA for this summer’s tournament aimed at eradicating racism prohibits players from speaking to opponents with their mouths covered.
And while Cucurella may not have said anything malicious during his conversation with the 39-year-old, Messi was quick to inform officials that Cucurella covered his mouth.
However, the forward’s pleas ultimately fell on deaf ears as no action was taken against Cucurella.
And as both teams went into extra-time, the BBC panel of Rooney, Richards, Hart and Gabby Logan voiced their displeasure with the play of one of the world’s most respected players.
England’s 2026 World Cup kit
Various prices
kit bag
Buy now at Kitbag
England and Nike have launched new home, away and goalkeeper kits to be worn at this summer’s FIFA World Cup. Use code DEAL to receive free shipping on all orders.
Rogan said: “Of course there was a moment between Messi and Cucarella where they tried to get Cucarella sent off here. Either Cucarella said something behind his back or Messi said he did, but Messi immediately called the officials. Mika, what do you think about that?”
Shocked by the move, Richards replied: “He doesn’t have all his hands, he just has two fingers. Isn’t that harsh? You don’t want to see someone sent off for that in a World Cup final.”
Hart then contributed his two cents, adding:
“If even Lionel Messi is back to that form, then you can see how Spain are on top of this game,” Logan replied, before adding, “Is that why Messi is so desperate?”
Rooney was not surprised by the tactic, saying: “That’s true, that’s how Argentina play.
“We know that’s what they’re doing. What everyone wants is good sportsmanship, but it was disappointing to see Lionel Messi doing it.”
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive Mirror Football content every day. Community members also receive special offers, promotions, and advertisements from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check it out whenever you like. If you are interested, please read our privacy notice.
