The memorable World Cup 2022, where Lionel Messi and the Argentine national team emerged victorious, remains a significant moment in sports history. According to Marcos Monetta, Argentina’s Rugby Sevens player, this sentiment is also prevalent in France. With just two days remaining until the commencement of the Paris Olympics, both rugby and soccer matches are in full operation. However, tensions between French fans and the Argentine teams have become increasingly apparent.

During yesterday’s match against Morocco, Argentina’s soccer team faced pronounced booing while their national anthem was played. Similarly, when Argentina’s Rugby Sevens side competed against Australia—winning 22-14—they were met with loud jeers from spectators. Monetta commented on these incidents and pointed to Lionel Messi’s influential role in all this.

“I love the atmosphere. We enjoyed it a lot,” stated Monetta. Addressing the unfriendly reception from fans he remarked, “I don’t know if they are hurt by Messi and the World Cup or because they don’t like us.” He opined “Maybe they’re scared of us,” referencing the impact of Lionel Messi’s triumph over France in thwarting their bid for consecutive World Cups.

A significant factor contributing to the existing hostility appears to stem from a recent controversy involving some Argentine players, including Enzo Fernandes, who reportedly directed racist chants towards members of the French team following Argentina’s victory in the Copa America.

This situation raises concerns as Argentina’s rugby team is poised to compete against France in the quarterfinals, and similar tensions could escalate—as experienced during Argentina’s soccer team’s match with Morocco.

Lionel Messi left stunned after Argentina’s chaotic Paris Olympic start

Argentina’s soccer team commenced its campaign at the Paris Olympics with a match against Morocco, which unfortunately did not start on a favorable note. The game unfolded with Morocco establishing a 2-0 lead over Argentina before they scored a goal, narrowing the deficit. However, discord erupted when an additional 15 minutes of stoppage time was announced.

This provided Argentina with adequate opportunity for recovery and successfully scored an equalizer just before full-time. This turn of events incited chaos among fans who stormed onto the pitch, forcing players to seek safety. Following this disruption, it was clarified that the play had merely been halted. Adding to this mess, VAR, subsequently, disallowed Argentina’s equalizing goal because of an offside call.

Consequently, after resuming play, Morocco secured its victory amidst considerable turmoil. Lionel Messi also reacted to this whole saga with a cryptic message on his Instagram stating “insolito” which means “unbelievable”. The Olympic Committee should be wary as we approach the upcoming rugby match between Argentina and France given these unsettling precedents and controversies surrounding both teams.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.