Argentine press reports revealed details of the altercation witnessed in Argentina's match against Switzerland in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup.
The Argentine national team succeeded in qualifying for the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup after defeating Switzerland 3-1.
Argentina sets a date with its English counterpart in the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup next Wednesday.
Details of Messi's altercation with the referee of the Switzerland match
The match between Argentina and Switzerland witnessed heated atmospheres between the players of both teams, especially in the first half of the encounter held in the quarter-final stage of the tournament.
A sharp argument erupted between Lionel Messi and referee João Pedro Pinheiro, and near the middle of the match, following a violent challenge from his opponents, the Argentine entered into a direct confrontation with the Portuguese referee, who, according to Argentine ESPN reports, did not use an appropriate tone with Messi.
According to the Argentine network, Messi said during the argument with the referee: "Speak to me with respect, do not diminish my respect."
The match witnessed refereeing controversy from the Portuguese referee Pinheiro, who showed the red card to Swiss national team player Breel Embolo.
