New footage shows referee pleading with Messi during World Cup final
New footage from inside the tunnel of the World Cup final has emerged, showing referee Slavko Vincic pleading with Lionel Messi to “control” Leandro Paredes, reports BritPanorama.
Paredes was involved in a fierce brawl at full time after Argentina lost 1-0 in extra time, attacking Spain’s Eric Garcia and Gavi. Vincic can be heard saying, “Messi, control Paredes. I don’t want to… he has yellow. Control please. Always, always.”
The midfielder, who was brought on at half-time, was booked just six minutes later before launching into the scuffle. Paredes grabbed Garcia by the neck before pushing and appearing to throw punches at Gavi. FIFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against Paredes, which include three counts of assault and a charge of unsporting behaviour.
Following the unsavoury scenes, Paredes has hinted at retiring from international football. “For many, it will be the time to decide if to continue. It was a great journey,” he told ESPN. “Maintaining that level, getting the group to continue to function as it has, will be very difficult, and there are many factors to consider.”
Argentina has faced significant criticism for their behaviour in the final and throughout the tournament. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off just before the end of normal time for a second bookable offence after a challenge on Spain’s Pau Cubarsi. His former teammate, Marc Cucurella, was seen conversing with him and Messi after the incident, covering his mouth during the discussion.
Messi immediately protested to Vincic, claiming that the Spanish full-back should also be sent off for this behaviour, with Fernandez echoing the demand. Prior to the final against England, Argentina celebrated their victory over the Three Lions by displaying a controversial banner stating, “The Falklands are Argentine.”
FIFA’s ongoing disciplinary proceedings against Argentina focus on potential breaches of several laws regarding team misconduct, security and protocol failures, as well as inappropriate messages and gestures during matches.
In the world of football, where the line between passion and aggression often blurs, this incident serves as a reminder of the fine margins that define professionalism and sportsmanship on the global stage.
