Archive · 20 Jul 2026
Messi Demands Red Card for Cucurella's Mouth Cover
During the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Argentina and Spain, Lionel Messi asked the referee to give Marc Cucurella a red card because Cucurella covered his mouth while talking to Messi.
This action is against FIFA's rules, which say that covering your mouth during an argument can hide bad words.
However, the referee did not give Cucurella a red card because they decided the situation was not serious enough.
After the game, many people criticized Messi for his actions, saying it was unfair and desperate.
Spain won the match 1-0 in extra time.
Lionel Messi demanded a red card for Spain's Marc Cucurella for covering his mouth during a confrontation.
FIFA's rule prohibits covering the mouth to prevent hiding abusive or discriminatory language.
The referee and VAR team reviewed the incident but did not issue a red card to Cucurella.
Messi faced backlash from football pundits for his aggressive appeal to the referee.
Spain won the match 1-0 in extra time.
- Who
- Lionel Messi and Marc Cucurella
- What
- Messi demanded a red card for Cucurella covering his mouth during a confrontation
- When
- During the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final
- Where
- At the FIFA World Cup Final venue
- Why
- To prevent hiding abusive or discriminatory language during on-field arguments
Messi's Perspective
Critics' Perspective
Mouth Covering Rule
Messi's Perspective
Messi believes covering the mouth during a confrontation is a serious offense that should result in a red card, as it can hide abusive or discriminatory language.
Critics' Perspective
Critics argue that Messi's reaction was excessive and that the rule should not be enforced so strictly, especially in non-confrontational situations.
Referee's Decision
Messi's Perspective
Messi expected the referee to strictly enforce the rule and issue a red card to Cucurella.
Critics' Perspective
Critics believe the referee made the correct decision by not issuing a red card, as the interaction was deemed non-confrontational.
Impact on the Game
Messi's Perspective
Messi's appeal was an attempt to gain an advantage for his team by reducing the number of players on the opposing side.
Critics' Perspective
Critics view Messi's actions as desperate and unsportsmanlike, potentially distracting from the actual gameplay.
- Event
- 2026 FIFA World Cup Final
- Teams
- Argentina vs. Spain
- Incident
- Messi demands red card for Cucurella covering his mouth
- Rule
- FIFA's mouth-covering restriction
- Outcome
- Cucurella not sent off, Spain wins 1-0 in extra time
- Critics
- Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart
- Referee
- Slavko Vinčić
- VAR Team
- Reviewed the incident