England defender Marc Guehi directly approached Lionel Messi to send him a five-word message just minutes after the World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. Messi was at the heart of proceedings as the reigning champions mounted a dramatic comeback to break English hearts and book their place in the final, where they will face Spain.
Guehi's gesture after the match
After the final whistle, Messi was conducting his post-match interview when Guehi approached him to offer his congratulations, saying: "Good luck in the final." Argentina's golden boy simply replied: "Thank you," and flashed a smile at the England defender as he trudged back to the dressing room.
England's defensive effort and Messi's influence
England initially managed to keep Messi quiet, with Elliot Anderson nullifying the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner for much of the contest. However, a defensive shift following Anthony Gordon's opening goal allowed the 39-year-old a greater degree of freedom to influence the game. He got the assist for Enzo Fernandez's equaliser before firing in the cross which led to Lisandro Martinez heading home a stoppage-time winner.
Potential FIFA controversy over Falklands banner
Even though Messi was lauded as the hero for Argentina because of his two assists, his actions immediately after the game could potentially land his country in hot water. He was one of several players who celebrated alongside a banner which read: "Las Malvinas son Argentinas", which translates as: "The Falklands are Argentine". The banner was brought onto the pitch by the Argentina squad, who also laid it on the turf in front of their fans behind the goal.
Precedent and possible sanctions
History suggests that FIFA could punish the gesture, given that political messaging is banned under World Cup rules and the governing body's code of conduct. Back in 2014, Argentina were hit with a £20,000 fine after holding up a banner with the same message before a friendly against Slovenia. It seems likely that another fine will be handed down on this occasion, but there are growing calls among disgruntled England fans to kick Argentina out of the tournament. That would be an unprecedented move and has the potential to spark what would arguably be the biggest controversy in the history of the World Cup.
