Messi's Farewell Match Marred by Selfie Snub Controversy and Falklands Banner Display
Social media backlash erupts over Lionel Messi's alleged refusal to take a selfie with a Benin player, alongside the reemergence of a controversial Falklands sovereignty banner.
Lionel Messi's emotional farewell match for Argentina was overshadowed by controversy, as social media users criticized the legendary player for an apparent snub of a Benin player seeking a selfie. The incident occurred during post-match festivities following Argentina's friendly against Benin, a match intended as a celebratory send-off for the retiring superstar.
Video clips circulating online appeared to show a Benin player attempting to take a selfie with Messi, who seemed to ignore the request. The player persisted in his attempt, with another teammate eventually intervening. This perceived brush-off drew significant criticism on social media platforms, with some users expressing disappointment and calling Messi's behavior a "shame" and "nonsense."
However, others suggested that Messi might have been overwhelmed by the emotional nature of his final match, which included a touching speech about his retirement and the recent death of his father, Jorge. During his speech, Messi expressed his sadness at leaving the national team but vowed to support future squads, stating, "When we are united we are stronger than anyone else." He concluded by expressing his pride in being Argentinian and his affection for his teammates and the country.
Adding to the controversy of the evening was the prominent display of Argentina's "Malvinas" banner, which asserts the nation's sovereignty over the Falkland Islands. The banner was held aloft by Fabio Santana, a Falklands War veteran and the singer of the Argentine national anthem, who embraced Messi while displaying the flag. This display reignited controversy, as the Argentina Football Federation was previously fined a substantial amount for similar displays of the banner after their World Cup semi-final victory.
The "Malvinas" banner, reportedly smuggled into stadiums, had previously caused significant backlash in the United Kingdom. UK officials had described the display as "entirely inappropriate."