As brilliant and utterly irrepressible as Lionel Messi is, there have been a few occasions during his illustrious career when opponents — and certainly opposition fans — have suggested that he has received “special treatment” from referees.
What is certain is that, between scoring his first and second goals against Algeria, he got lucky. A challenge on Algeria captain Aissa Mandi, who was caught by Messi on his right calf and Achilles tendon, could have earned at least a yellow card — and plausibly a red card — but Polish referee Szymon Marciniak was content to award a free kick.
It was a strange incident. Mandi was in control of the ball, going nowhere fast, and there was little prospect of dispossessing him from Messi’s position. To make a lunge like that, with his studs up, seemed incomprehensible, never mind dangerous.
Special treatment? At the very least it was lenient refereeing. A yellow card would perhaps have been the most widely expected outcome — a red card second — but Messi was certainly lucky to get away scot-free.
✍️ @OliverKay
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🚨 Milan confirm Ruben Amroim has joined on a three-year contract.
🗣️ Amorim: "There are ambitions that stay with you throughout your career, and coaching AC Milan has always been one of mine. I know exactly what this Club means: history, prestige and an extraordinary fanbase around the world. It is a challenge I embrace with pride and enthusiasm, fully aware of what these colours represent. I can't wait to get started."
Amorim's appointment means Manchester United make a significant saving as over half the £15.9m in maximum compensation now won’t be due.
Amorim will also face Manchester United in pre-season.🔴⚫️
🚨 EXCL: Crysencio Summerville high among candidates Manchester United considering as possible left wing signing. 24yo West Ham attacker subject to enquiries from #MUFC & expected to cost ~£50m to land #Netherlands international from #WHUFC@TheAthleticFC https://t.co/I9A74Ko3TI
This is U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and it’s not even one of the venues hosting the FIFA World Cup in the U.S. The crazy part is that there are several stadiums like this across the country.
This is U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and it’s not even one of the venues hosting the FIFA World Cup in the U.S. The crazy part is that there are several stadiums like this across the country.