Ex-Brazil Star Claims FIFA Is Shielding Messi Before World Cup Final

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Former Brazil international Caio Ribeiro criticised refereeing standards at the 2026 World Cup during a live TV appearance. He argued that Lionel Messi has been receiving special treatment from officials, citing a dangerous tackle against Algeria in the group stage that, in his view, deserved a straight red card. Speaking to a Brazilian sports outlet, Ribeiro insisted referees have been more lenient with the Argentine captain than with other players on the pitch. With Argentina just hours away from facing Spain in the final, his comments add fresh fuel to the debate over impartiality at football’s biggest stage.

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