Antonio Mateu Lahoz, Controversial Referee from Argentina Vs Netherlands Match ‘Sent Home’ After Lionel Messi’s Statement
Controversial referee Antonio Mateu Lahoz was “sent home,” according to sources, after the FIFA World Cup 2022 quarterfinal match he officiated between fan-favorite Argentina and the Netherlands on December 9.
Even though Argentina won the match on penalties, Lionel Messi, the Argentine legend, spoke harshly of the referee after the game, which was quite atypical and unexpected of the typically humble player.
Lahoz was called out for making questionable and controversial decisions in the frequently interrupted match, which saw several heated encounters and 15 total yellow cards.
After the end of the match, Messi stated that he had no intention of talking about the referees owing to his fear of getting sanctioned and penalized. However, he added that the world had witnessed what occurred and that the FIFA federation should address this situation of an unprofessional referee overseeing such a crucial quarterfinal match.
Antonio Mateu Lahoz sent home by FIFA
After Messi’s remarks about the referee being able to handle such a situation, it was reported that Lahoz had been “sent home” and would not be taking any further part in the last four crucial games left in the FIFA World cup.
Fans worldwide have speculated that Messi has finally gotten his wish fulfilled. However, it was emphasized that Lahoz’s departure might have nothing to do with the match between Argentina and the Netherlands. But we all know; this has a tinge of fakeness to it.
Earlier, the FIFA governing body confirmed a disciplinary case against Lionel Messi and Argentina’s team would be opened owing to their on-field aggressions and breaching of codes in their quarterfinal match against the Netherlands.
“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Argentinian Football Association due to potential breaches of articles 12 (Misconduct of players and officials) and 16 (Order and security at matches) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code during the Netherlands vs Argentina FIFA World Cup match,” said FIFA in their official statement.
