Argentina’s semifinal match versus Croatia might result in a massive problem. Lionel Messi, the captain, might be banned and therefore miss the crucial encounter. FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Messi in response to his criticism of match referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz.
The quarterfinals meeting between the Netherlands and Argentina was a brutal battle between the two heavyweights. Discipline was a concern throughout the game, with both players and coaching staff from both teams losing their cool. This prompted referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz to issue a total of 16 yellow cards.
Apart from verbal spats, both teams’ players frequently challenged each other as brawls erupted during and after the game. The confrontation was so severe that Denzel Dumfries of the Netherlands earned two yellow cards and was escorted off the pitch following the penalty shootout. Lionel Messi and Argentine goalkeeper Emi Martinez both chastised referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz after the game.
Following the Argentine squad’s harsh criticism, FIFA decided to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association and the appropriate players. As a result, there is a significant danger that Leo Messi may miss the semifinals against Croatia if he is proven guilty.
FIFA has begun an investigation into Argentina for violating articles 12 and 16, which deal with player and official misconduct and order and security during matches, respectively. A breath on article 12 has been used against the Dutch Football Association.
Argentina overcame the Netherlands 4-3 on penalties Friday following a 2-2 draw at Lusail Stadium, setting a World Cup record with 18 yellow cards.
As the Dutch battled back from two goals down to force extra time, the game saw several mob clashes and angry exchanges.
According to FIFA, the claims against Argentina’s football association concern player and staff wrongdoing as well as “order and security at matches.”
“I don’t want to comment about referees because they would punish you, but we were worried before the game because we knew what was going to happen [with Mateu Lahoz].” I can’t tell what I believe, but FIFA should look into it. “[FIFA] cannot put a referee of such caliber in charge of this game,” Messi stated.