Fans have accused Lionel Messi of 'disrespect' after he confronted referee Anderson Daronco during Argentina's heated World Cup qualifier against Paraguay. It was an evening to forget for La Albiceleste and their players, who suffered a 2-1 defeat at the Defensores del Chaco Stadium, Paraguay.

How big Messi’s impact is can be gauged from the fact that Paraguay banned jerseys bearing the Argentina footballer’s name from entering the Estadio Defensores del Chaco stadium in Asunción.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni believes Lionel Messi jerseys will be present in the home section despite the Paraguayan Football Association's (APF) ban on rival shirts ahead of Thursday's South American World Cup 2026 qualifier.

With qualification for the 2026 World Cup on the line, Paraguay is making sure that it has every possible advantage ahead of its match against Lionel Messi and Argentina.

Paraguayan Football Association manager Fernando Villasboa warned the home crowd to wear only Paraguayan shirts to the match.

Lionel Messi was captured in a heated confrontation with match officials during Argentina's unexpected 2-1 defeat to Paraguay in the 2026 World Cup qualifier.

Lionel Messi’s Argentina are down 2-1 against Paraguay in the first half for Matchday 11 of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at Defensores del Chaco stadium. Check out our live updates! Paraguay lead Argentina 2-1 for Matchday 11 of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at Defensores del Chaco stadium.