Lionel Messi’s Heated Clash with Referee Anderson Daronco After Argentina’s 2-1 Loss to Paraguay.
In an intense match during the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers on November 15, Argentina suffered a surprising 2-1 defeat against Paraguay. However, the game wasn’t just about the result — the spotlight turned to a fiery exchange between Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, and match referee Anderson Daronco. This incident has sparked debates across the footballing world, raising questions about sportsmanship, officiating, and Messi’s response.
Match Details & Results
- Competition: CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers
- Date: November 15
- Venue: Defensores del Chaco, Asunción, Paraguay
- Final Score: Paraguay 2–1 Argentina
- Goal Scorers:
- Argentina: Lautaro Martínez (11′)
- Paraguay: Antonio Sanabria (19′), Miguel Almirón (78′)
- Referee: Anderson Daronco
- Yellow Cards:
- Paraguay: 3 players booked
- Argentina: 1 player booked
- Total Fouls: 26 (17 committed by Paraguay, 9 by Argentina)
The Incident: Messi vs. Daronco
Lionel Messi, known for his composed demeanor on the field, was uncharacteristically seen confronting referee Anderson Daronco after the match. Videos of the clash went viral, showing Messi visibly agitated and exchanging heated words with the official.
Lip-reading experts from around the world analyzed the footage, revealing that Messi allegedly said,
“You are sh*t, a coward, I don’t like you!”
Such remarks directed at match officials often carry severe consequences in professional football, and Messi may face disciplinary action.
The incident seemed to stem from dissatisfaction with Daronco’s officiating. Argentina, particularly Messi, appeared frustrated with what they believed was a lenient approach towards Paraguay’s physical gameplay. Despite multiple fouls and challenges that risked player injuries, the referee stood firm in his decisions, opting for fewer bookings.
The Match: Argentina’s Disappointment
Argentina, the reigning world champions, entered the game as heavy favorites. With 22 points from 11 matches, they were comfortably leading the CONMEBOL standings. The game began on a high note for the visitors when Lautaro Martínez found the net in the 11th minute.
However, Paraguay showed resilience, refusing to back down against the formidable Argentine side. Antonio Sanabria equalized in the 19th minute, energizing the home crowd. The match then took a physical turn, with aggressive tackles and contentious decisions adding to the tension.
In the 78th minute, Paraguay’s star player, Miguel Almirón, scored the decisive goal, sealing a famous victory for the hosts. The loss marked Argentina’s third defeat in the qualifiers and reignited discussions about their vulnerability, particularly without Messi firing on all cylinders.
WATCH VIDEO BELOW
🚨 LIONEL MESSI ARGUMENT WITH REFEREE HAS BEEN LEAKED:
"Tu eres un cag*n, cobarde, no me estas gustando"
("You are a sh*t, coward, I don't like you") pic.twitter.com/DNniORaiJB
— LLF (@laligafrauds) November 15, 2024
Referee Controversy and Physical Play
A significant aspect of the game was its physicality. The two teams collectively committed 26 fouls, with Paraguay responsible for 17 of them. However, Anderson Daronco issued just four yellow cards during the game — three to Paraguay players and one to an Argentine player.
Messi and his teammates were visibly frustrated by the referee’s handling of the match. Argentina felt that the challenges, especially from the Paraguayan players, warranted stricter punishment to protect players from injury.
Daronco, known for his firm officiating style, stood by his decisions, further angering the visitors. Messi’s confrontation with Daronco appeared to be a culmination of the Argentine captain’s discontent with what he perceived as unfair officiating.
Possible Consequences for Messi
Lionel Messi’s alleged comments towards the referee could have repercussions. FIFA has strict regulations regarding the treatment of match officials. If reports about his remarks are verified, Messi could face:
- A Fine: Likely issued by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) or FIFA.
- Suspension: A temporary ban from international matches.
- Reprimand: A warning or a formal statement condemning his actions.
Messi, a global icon, rarely finds himself in controversies of this nature, making the incident even more surprising. Fans and pundits are divided — while some sympathize with Messi’s frustration, others argue that his conduct sets a poor example for younger players.
The Bigger Picture: Argentina’s Qualifying Campaign
Despite the defeat, Argentina remains in a strong position in the CONMEBOL standings with 22 points. The team’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup seems almost certain, but this loss exposes potential weaknesses.
Key Takeaways from the Match:
- Argentina’s reliance on Messi remains evident, but the team struggled to assert dominance against a physical Paraguay side.
- Defensive lapses and a lack of discipline in midfield allowed Paraguay to capitalize on their chances.
- The physical nature of South American football continues to challenge even the best teams.
Public Reaction and Media Coverage
The Messi-Daronco clash has dominated headlines, overshadowing the result itself. Fans of both Argentina and Paraguay have taken to social media to voice their opinions:
- Argentine Fans: Many feel that Daronco’s officiating cost them the match, siding with Messi’s frustrations.
- Paraguayan Fans: Jubilant after a famous victory, they defend Daronco and praise their team’s performance.
- Neutral Observers: Highlight the need for players, including global icons like Messi, to maintain professionalism regardless of circumstances.
What’s Next for Argentina?
Argentina will look to bounce back in their upcoming qualifier against Ecuador, a match where Messi and his teammates will aim to reinforce their dominance. Meanwhile, FIFA may conduct a review of the Messi-Daronco incident, potentially impacting Argentina’s preparations.
