ARGIE BARGIE
Lionel Messi slammed by furious Copa America chiefs after Argentina star claimed tournament is ‘corrupt’
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LIONEL MESSI has been slammed by furious Copa America chiefs after claiming the tournament is ‘corrupt’ in favour of hosts Brazil.
The Barcelona superstar was controversially sent off for kicking out at former Cardiff midfielder Gary Medel in Argentina’s 2-1 third-place play-off win over Chile.
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After only his second ever dismissal — his first was 14 years ago — Messi, 32, refused to collect his medal then stormed: “There is no doubt, the whole thing is set up for Brazil.
“I did not want to be part of this corruption. We shouldn’t have to be part of this disrespect we suffered during the Copa America.
“We could have gone further, but we weren’t allowed into the final. Corruption, referees and all the rest stopped people from enjoying the football.”
RAGING LIONEL
It was Messi’s second rant at the standard of refereeing following Argentina’s semi-final defeat to Brazil, which secured the hosts a place in last night’s final against Peru.
Speaking before that game, he added: “I hope VAR and referees don’t play any part in the final and that Peru can compete — but it looks tough to me.
“I always tell the truth and I’m honest. If what I say has repercussions that is not my business.”
However, Messi faces a possible ban for his outburst, which was branded ‘unacceptable’ by South American football’s governing body, CONMEBOL.
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A statement read: “Accepting the outcome of a match with respect is a fundamental pillar of fair play.The same goes for the refereeing decisions.
“It’s unacceptable there have been unfounded accusations that misrepresent the truth and put to judgement the integrity of Copa America.
"These represent a lack of respect for the competition.”
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