Rodrygo calls Messi and Argentina ‘cowards’, triggers response from World Champions

To understand what happened in the early hours of Wednesday, we will begin with a ‘crazy’ stat. There were forty-two fouls in the match between Brazil and Argentina, almost a fouls every two minutes. Now let’s begin.

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, the iconic Maracana stadium played host to a highly anticipated clash between football giants Brazil and Argentina in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying stage. However, what was meant to be a thrilling display of skill on the pitch quickly turned into a chaotic and controversial event.

The night kicked off in an unlikely fashion as tensions escalated between the home and away fans, resulting in a brutal clash. Shockingly, even the police found themselves embroiled in heated moments with the away fans. The atmosphere was far from the celebratory spirit usually associated with football matches.

Chaotic delay

Originally scheduled to commence at 00:30 GMT, the game faced a 28-minute delay, leaving several away fans distraught and some visibly injured, covered in blood and tears. As chaos unfolded in the stands, players from both teams attempted to intervene and calm the escalating situation, drawing near to the stands in an effort to restore order.

However, the shocking scene took an even darker turn when the local police were observed physically attacking Argentine fans. Emiliano Martínez, the goalkeeper of the reigning world champions, took matters into his own hands, attempting to confront the police in a bid to protect the supporters.

Argentina leave in anger

Frustrated and upset by the unfolding events, Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, led his team off the pitch and towards the locker room. In stark contrast, Brazil’s team remained on the field, highlighting the contrasting reactions to the turmoil.

Rodrygo’s strong word

Upon the teams’ return to the pitch, tensions reached a boiling point as Real Madrid forward Rodrygo accused Messi and the Argentine team of cowardice for leaving the field and attempting to avoid playing. Rodrygo called Messi and Argentina “cowards”. In response, Messi confronted the 22-year-old, grabbing him by the neck and emphatically asserting, “We are the world champions, why are we cowards? Watch your mouth.”

The heated moment between Rodrygo and Messi with De Paul near.

Despite the off-field chaos, the game eventually resumed, concluding with a 0-1 victory in favor of the away side, Argentina. The on-field action, however, was overshadowed by the disturbing incidents in the stands and the contentious exchanges between players.

Adding to Brazil’s woes, the defeat marked their fourth consecutive game without a win, raising questions about the team’s form and ability to secure victories in crucial matches. As the football world reflects on this tumultuous encounter, it serves as a stark reminder that sometimes, the drama off the pitch can overshadow even the most significant sporting events.