Referee’s plea to Messi exposes Paredes chaos in World Cup final

World Cup final referee Slavko Vincic pleaded with Lionel Messi to rein in teammate Leandro Paredes as the Argentine side struggled to control the Argentine captain’s out‑of‑control colleague during the match. The appeal, captured on referee‑cam, shows the official urging the star forward to keep his teammate’s aggression in check before the final whistle.

Scott Trotter Sports Writer17:45 reported on 16 Aug that Messi was tasked with keeping Paredes on the field before the violent scenes he sparked came the full‑time whistle. Paredes only entered the match at half‑time, stayed on for 14 minutes and was fortunate to remain on the pitch after receiving a yellow card just six minutes in. The former Paris Saint‑Germain midfielder’s foul came as Enzo Fernandez was later sent off, leaving Argentina under pressure.

On‑field violence

During his brief spell, Paredes was seen kicking and punching Spain star Eric Garcia, shoving the defender to the ground and grappling Barcelona ace Gavi. The Argentine’s actions sparked a chaotic sequence that saw both sides’ players scramble to restore order. Images from the incident show the chaos unfolding on the pitch.

Disciplinary fallout

Footage has emerged in which Vincic can be heard warning Messi, “Messi, control Paredes,” followed by “I don’t want to… he has yellow. Control please. Always, always.” The audio was captured by ImagesReferee Slavko Vincic and the accompanying still was credited to Evrim Aydin/Anadolu via Getty Images, with the caption noting ON Aydin.

FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Paredes for three counts of assault, while Argentina’s Nahuel Molina faced two counts and coach Roberto Ayala one count after Molina appeared to strike Rodri and Ayala hit Dani Olmo. The governing body’s allegations underline the seriousness of the post‑match actions.

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente expressed disbelief, saying on Spanish television, “At the time, I didn’t realise it. I was celebrating, hugging team‑mates.” De La Fuente’s comments highlighted the unexpected nature of the incident for the Spanish side.

After the tournament, Paredes sparked further controversy at Boca Juniors when, as a Central Cordoba player tried to rise after a foul, he kicked the ball towards him. The veteran was on the field for only 14 minutes in that episode as well, and the incident was captured in a photo by Marvin Ibo Guengoer – GES Sportfoto/Getty Images.

FIFA’s disciplinary process continues, meaning the Argentine midfielder could face further sanctions as the investigation proceeds.