Watch: Lionel Messi's heated verbal altercation with referee following Argentina's defeat

In a heated FIFA World Cup qualifier, Paraguay shocked world Champions Argentina, defeating them 2-1 at Estadio Defensores del Chaco. The match began with Lautaro Martínez putting Argentina ahead in the 11th minute. However, just eight minutes later, Paraguayan Antonio Sanabria showcased his skills with a spectacular bicycle kick to level the score.

The turning point of the game came when Omar Alderete scored the decisive goal shortly after halftime, securing a vital victory for Paraguay. Despite Argentina's greater possession and more goal attempts, Paraguay's strategic execution and resilience significantly contributed to their success, enhancing their standing in the tournament.

Messi's heated altercation with Referee

A video of Lionel Messi engaging in a heated exchange with the referee has gained significant attention following Paraguay's 2-1 victory over Argentina in the qualifiers. While many fans admire Messi for his generally humble demeanour, this incident has sparked diverse reactions on social media, particularly regarding his gesture towards the referee. Despite his efforts, Messi was unable to score or make a have any impact during the match.

Lionel Messi vs Paraguay al árbitro en su cara:

“Tu eres un CAGÓN, no me estas gustando”

Cualquiera pensaría que esto es mínimo amarilla o roja, no? Pues Messi tiene vía libre de hablarle como quiera a lo árbitros 😂😂😂
pic.twitter.com/XlbEiSW8iN

— MT2 (@madrid_total2) November 15, 2024

Argentina faced Paraguay in a hostile environment, where local authorities imposed a ban on fans wearing Messi shirts in the stadium. Television coverage from Asuncion starkly revealed that the overwhelming majority of the home crowd wearing Paraguay's red and white colours.

Throughout the first half, Messi found himself with limited opportunities to engage with the ball. Paraguay's relentless pressure and aggressive marking made it evident that they were determined to contain the Argentine star. Frustration mounted for Messi as he visibly reacted to Brazilian referee Anderson Daronco’s refusal to issue a red card to Paraguay’s Omar Alderete for his brutal tackles.

“We came to a hard place where the national team always struggled,” said Martínez.

“We have to correct a lot of things we did wrong in this match, but generally speaking we are playing well. We are still in the lead, and we have to look forward.” Martinez added.