Lionel Messi is always in the spotlight. The Inter Miami forward was in action last night for his country in their crucial 1-0 win over rivals Paraguay. Nicolás Otamendi scored in the 3rd minute to secure a vital win, which took Argentina top of the WC qualifiers table. Messi only played 35 minutes as he is recovering from an injury. Despite his return, the World Cup winner is in the limelight, but not for his soccer skills. During the match, a Paraguayan player spat on Messi and the Argentine captain has some words in response.
The incident took place last night and has raised eyebrows of soccer fans. Messi fans worldwide expect the player to get punished for his disrespectful action.
Lionel Messi responds to the spat on by the Paraguayan striker
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Last night Lionel Messi was spat on by Paraguayan number nine Antonio Sanabria. After the game, Messi said to the reporters, “They told me that someone spat at me in the locker room, I didn’t see it… The truth is that I don’t even know who this boy is. I don’t want to give him any importance either because he’ll talk about it and become known.” The Inter Miami superstar doesn’t want to give to the situation any attention and feels it’s better to leave it.
🇦🇷🗣️ Leo Messi on Sanabria (🇵🇾):
“They told me that someone spat at me in the locker room, I didn't see it… The truth is that I don't even know who this boy is. I don't want to give him any importance either because he'll talk about it and become known.” pic.twitter.com/43tUxZl7Vb
— Barça Worldwide (@BarcaWorldwide) October 13, 2023
The Torino striker came on the field in the 70th minute as his country chased the game. Sanabria appeared to spit on the Argentine while he turned away. Messi was furious with the striker Despite the fact it is still unclear what sparked the incident. Sanabria remained on the field as the referees did not see the matter. It will be interesting whether or not strict action against Sanabria for his unsporting act is taken. Will the Torino striker issue an apology to the veteran?
Will Lionel Messi win his 8th Ballon d’Or this year?
Lionel Messi had an astonishing season. The forward won the biggest World Cup prize; the silverware was considered the missing piece from his trophy cabinet. He was awarded the Golden Ball at the World Cup for his incredible performances. He was in ten goals in only seven appearances at the World Cup. Despite his international success, Messi made 36 goal contributions for PSG. He played a crucial part as PSG won the League last season.
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Despite Messi’s incredibly fantastic year, Erling Haaland is the only threat to his potential 8th Ballon d’Or. The Norwegian striker won the treble with Manchester City last season and was the top Premier League and Champions League scorer. But after winning the World Cup with Argentina, Messi looks on course to win the award again.
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