Lionel Messi's hopes of leading Argentina to back-to-back World Cup triumphs were dashed in a defeat to Spain, with the world's greatest ever player embarrassing himself by joining the dark arts of his teammates. The footballing genius, who lit up the tournament by defying age and logic, threatened to win the Golden Boot, inspired his team to consecutive finals, and broke Miroslav Klose's scoring record. Yet, his behavior at the final whistle of one of the most ill-tempered World Cup finals in history cast a shadow over his achievements.
A Petulant Reaction to Defeat
In the aftermath of Enzo Fernandez's red card for a second yellow card foul on Pau Cubarsi, players surrounded Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic. Messi used his interaction with Marc Cucurella as an opportunity to settle scores. Cucurella attempted to communicate with Messi with his hand over his mouth, using only a couple of fingers. Messi then reported him to the referee, trying to get Cucurella sent off under a FIFA rule against hand gestures. This act, described as shameful, embarrassing, and humiliating, turned Messi into a petulant child running to the teacher over a minor infraction.
Legacy Tarnished
Messi has spent the World Cup appearing above the law regarding referees, with his aura intimidating officials. No one wanted to be the referee who sent off the greatest footballer of all time. But this final act diminished his self-respect and dignity. If this proves to be his last World Cup, one of his final acts will be remembered with huge sadness. He showed he is fallible, vulnerable, human, and unable to accept losing. Even true greats are flawed, and Messi has now added his name to that list.
