Lionel Messi confronted Brazil forward, Rodrygo after he branded Argentina “cowards” for leaving the field in reaction to their fans being assaulted by police on Tuesday night.
Before the World Cup qualifier began, the Maracana was filled with extremely unpleasant events. During the Brazilian national anthem, police charged at the visiting supporters.
The Argentina players raced to the away end to try and reduce the tension as some fans were left wounded, bruised, and in need of medical attention.
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez was also spotted attempting to take a baton from one of the police officers. In the end, Messi chose to lead his team off the field and back to the dressing room.
The Ballon d’Or winner was spotted telling authorities as he departed the field: ‘We’re leaving. We can’t play in these circumstances.’
According to The Metro, following an extended break, Argentina’s players returned to the field, but the intense tension had now transferred onto the field. With Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Atletico Madrid midfielder, Rodrigo De Paul clashing about the decision to go back to the dressing room.
Messi intervened, but Argentine broadcaster, TyC Sports claimed Rodrygo called the Argentina team “cowards,” which only made the situation worse.
The Inter Miami star then grabbed Rodrygo by the nape of the neck and said something hostile at him, apparently saying: ‘We are the world champions! Why are we cowards? Watch your mouth.’
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Rodrygo attempted to escalate the argument as Messi turned to leave, but De Paul pulled him away.
This led to the involvement of several other players and staff, including Tottenham Hotspur trio Cristian Romero, Giovani Lo Celso, and Emerson Royal serving as mediators.
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