Lionel Messi lashed out at Real Madrid star during Brazil vs Argentina game | OneFootball

Argentina’s World Cup qualifier against Brazil last night had no shortage of drama. As such, Argentina captain Lionel Messi alleged that the Brazilian police engaged in brutal tactics, leading to a 30-minute delay in the start of the match at Maracana Stadium.

It is to be noted that the disturbance arose from confrontations between law enforcement and the visiting fans after violent clashes erupted behind one of the goals as the national anthems played, leading to a police intervention.

Officers charged at the travelling contingent with nightsticks and in retaliation, some Argentina fans tore up seats and hurled them at the officers, causing panic among other spectators who rushed onto the pitch to evade the turmoil.

The match eventually started after a brief pause and ended 1-0 in favour of Argentina.

Messi had an argument of his own

Leading to the story, a report from the Mirror has emerged that Messi had an altercation with Rodrygo moments before the start of the game.

Lionel Messi had an altercation with Real Madrid forward Rodrygo. (Photo by CARL DE SOUZA/AFP via Getty Images)

After Argentina walked back onto the field after a brief delay, the Real Madrid forward confronted Messi, audibly expressing to the Argentine captain and his teammate Rodrigo De Paul, “You cowards.”

In response, Messi calmly placed his hand on Rodrygo’s shoulder and then on the back of his neck, saying, “We are the world champions. Why are we cowards? Watch your mouth.” With that, the 36-year-old departed, leaving De Paul to carry on the exchange.

Coaches and players from both teams rushed onto the field to calm the confrontation. The intensity of the incident, however, failed to subside, contributing to a troubled and fiery first half, which had a high frequency of fouls that hampered the overall flow of the game.

Towards the end of the match, Joelinton was sent off after Nicolas Otamendi had given Argentina the lead.