PSG Stars Fires Back At Messi Over Corruption Claims

Paris Saint Germain Star Marquinhos has hit back at Barcelona and Argentina Captain Lionel Messi after he accused South American football governing body Conmebol of Corruption.

Messi accused the Federation after Argentina’s 2-0 loss to Brazil in the Semifinal of the Copa America. The Barcelona Number 10 hit out at the match officials, saying everything has been set up for a Brazil win.

He also refused to partake in the medal ceremony after Argentina’s 2-1 win over Chile in the third-place match. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was sent off in that game after he was involved in a tussle with Gary Medel.

When asked why he refused to show up for the medal presentation, the 32-year-old told BBC. “The cup’s fixed for Brazil.

“We don’t have to be part of this corruption. They have shown us a lack of respect throughout this tournament. “Sadly, the corruption, the referees, they don’t allow people to enjoy football, they ruined it a bit.”

However, Brazil star Marquinhos has fired back at the Argentine saying he has no moral right to accuse match officials when his Barcelona side have benefitted from dubious calls in the past.

“A lot of things have already happened in his favour for Barcelona & Argentina, & I never heard him complain about corruption or refereeing. I think he lost & he has to accept it, swallow it.”

Marquinhos comments were echoed by his Paris Saint Germain teammates Thiago Silva and Dani Alves.  Silva who is PSG’s captain said Messi needs to respect Brazil’s history.

Sometimes when you lose you try to take the weight off your own responsibility & blame others. It’s sad to hear. After a ridiculous performance by the referee did we [blame the organisation for giving it to Barca after 6-1 PSG]? We must respect history.”