Unseen footage released by FIFA shows England's Jude Bellingham expressing strong dissatisfaction with referee Ismail Elfath's decisions following the team's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. Bellingham confronted the referee, stating, "Some shocking ones there, but all the best," after a match where Argentina committed 15 fouls.
The Real Madrid player's grievances came after a match marked by what sources described as Argentina's "roughhouse tactics." The tension escalated after the final whistle, with Bellingham involved in physical altercations with Argentine players. Tottenham captain Cristian Romero reportedly goaded Bellingham, leading to a confrontation.
Footage shows Romero slapping substitute Valentin Barco on the back of the head, who then turned and pushed Bellingham. Nicolas Otamendi also confronted Bellingham, with other players attempting to de-escalate the situation.
During the post-match celebrations, members of the Argentina squad displayed a banner asserting ownership of the Falkland Islands, referred to as "The Malvinas." Players including Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Giovani Lo Celso, as well as Lionel Messi, were seen with the banner, despite FIFA's regulations against political displays.
FIFA is reportedly investigating disciplinary actions related to the team's conduct during and after the match, including the political banner display and incidents following their final loss to Spain. Argentina ultimately lost the final 1-0 to Spain, with Enzo Fernandez receiving a red card and Leandro Paredes being penalized for an altercation. Even Lionel Messi was involved in a confrontation during the final match.
The events surrounding the tournament and the semi-final match have reportedly impacted Lionel Messi's public perception in Britain. A YouGov poll indicated a significant drop in his favorability rating, falling from 55% favorable and 9% unfavorable to 29% favorable and 44% unfavorable. This marks a net favorability rating decline from +46 to -15 among Britons surveyed.