Lionel Messi accused of gamesmanship in World Cup final against Spain
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 19, 2026, 9:33 PM
Last updated Jul 19, 2026
Lionel Messi faced criticism for allegedly attempting to get Marc Cucurella sent off during the World Cup 2026 final in New York. Following a red card issued to Argentina's Enzo Fernandez, Messi was seen approaching referee Slavko Vincic after an incident with Cucurella. Commentator Lee Dixon criticized Messi's actions as 'ridiculous' and likened it to 'being a baby' in seeking an equal number of players on the field. The match is currently ongoing as Argentina and Spain compete for the title.
- •Lionel Messi is captain of Argentina in the World Cup final.
- •Enzo Fernandez received a red card for a foul.
- •Messi approached the referee regarding Cucurella's interaction.
- •Dixon criticized Messi's attempt to influence the referee.
- •The final match is still in progress.
- 11:06 PMYahoo Sports — How Lionel Messi tried to get Spain player sent off during World Cup final
- 9:33 PMYahoo Sports — Lionel Messi called ‘a baby’ after attempting to get Marc Cucurella sent off in World Cup final
"Despite Spain dominating most of this World Cup final, it was anyone’s game right up until the last minute. The new world champions were on top for almost the whole 120 minutes, but they were never able to stretch out a lead to put the game beyond doubt.
"The Argentina captain appeared to protest to referee Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic after an interaction with the Spain defender in the final
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJul 19, 2026, 11:06 PMHow Lionel Messi tried to get Spain player sent off during World Cup final
Despite Spain dominating most of this World Cup final, it was anyone’s game right up until the last minute. The new world champions were on top for almost the whole 120 minutes, but they were never able to stretch out a lead to put the game beyond doubt.
- Yahoo SportsJul 19, 2026, 9:33 PMLionel Messi called ‘a baby’ after attempting to get Marc Cucurella sent off in World Cup final
The Argentina captain appeared to protest to referee Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic after an interaction with the Spain defender in the final
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