Argentina defeated Chile 2-1 in Saturday's ill-tempered Copa America third-place playoff that saw Lionel Messi being sent off before halftime.
Messi hit out at “corruption” and the organisers of the tournament after he and Chile captain Gary Medel were sent off in the 37th minute for a minor brush at the goalline where the Barcelona forward challenged Medel and was pushed. This prompted the referee to show the red card to both players.
Messi went on to say that corruption and the referees were preventing people from enjoying football. He did not attend the ceremony to receive his third-place medal either.
“I think the cup is fixed for Brazil,” Messi added.
The Argentine had expressed his displeasure over the refereeing in the semifinal against Brazil and accused the CONMEBOL, South America football's governing body of giving the hosts preferential treatment. Brazil had beaten Argentina 2-0 in the semifinal to set up a clash with Peru in the Copa America final.
“I hope that the VAR and the referees have nothing to do in this final and that Peru can compete because they have the team to do so although I think it's difficult.”
Sergio Aguero gave Argentina the lead in the 12th minute. Paulo Dybala followed suit 10 minutes later, taking Argentina two up after Giovani Lo Celso put him through on goal. Artur Vidal pulled one back for Chile from the penalty spot 14 minutes into the second half.
(With inputs from agencies)
