Valentin Barco's wife, Yaz Juareguy, has slammed Jude Bellingham as 'useless,' suggesting he should have done his talking on the pitch. Juareguy posted footage of the moment Bellingham appeared to slap Barco without provocation during England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina earlier this week.
Footage Shows Bellingham Slapping Barco
New footage has emerged showing the Real Madrid midfielder watching Argentina's full-time celebrations before Barco joins a group of his team-mates. Bellingham had already shaken hands with another player, looked down briefly, then spotted Barco. The 23-year-old marched over and clipped Barco in the back, prompting the pair to exchange a push and some heated words. Both Bellingham and Morgan Rogers then had to be pulled away.
However, it has since emerged that Barco had antagonised England players earlier in the match. Tempers flared at full-time when Bellingham confronted his opponent as the Chelsea-bound star celebrated with his team-mates. The referee had to rush over to pull Barco away from the England players, though the former Brighton ace escaped any further punishment.
Argentina Comeback Secures Final Berth
Argentina came from 1-0 down to win 2-1 and book their place in Sunday's final against Spain (8pm). England's back-up goalkeeper Dean Henderson also stepped in as a barrier as Argentina's players tried to reach his team-mate.
After the match, Juareguy took to social media, writing: 'It's better to do the talking on the field.' She ended her message with the word 'muerto' which literally translates to 'dead' in English, but in the context she used it, is closer in meaning to 'useless.'
Juareguy Doubles Down After Criticism
Criticism quickly followed, prompting Juareguy to delete the post. She then doubled down in her defence, adding: 'I didn't know that suddenly you can't celebrate goals, but you can endorse a violent person. Switch to a different sport if you're going to cry so much. Good day.'
The Three Lions will play one final match at the World Cup on Saturday evening - a bronze-medal clash against France, who were beaten 2-0 by finalists Spain (10pm kick-off).
