WATCH: Lionel Messi reacts furiously as Peru star appears to elbow him in Argentina's World Cup qualifier win
Lionel Messi allegedly insulted Carlos Zambrano during Argentina's 1-0 win over Peru. The two sides faced off in a keenly contested CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, November 19.
The first half of the game was one-sided as Argentina dominated the game, registering seven goal attempts. However, only one of their attempts was on target, as the first half ended goalless.
In the second half, Lautaro Martinez broke the deadlock in the 55th minute after receiving a brilliant pass from Messi. Despite La Albiceleste's efforts to double their lead, the game ended 1-0.
However, Messi's furious exchange with Carlos Zambrano was a subject of discussion on social media after the game.
In the 36th minute, Messi registered a shot that Carlos Zambrano tried to block. But the defender ended up hitting Messi, making the Argentine skipper visibly furious.
As such, Messi was quoted saying (via Tyc Sports):
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING, FOOL?"
Watch the video below.
This latest alleged comment came days after Messi confronted Brazilian referee Anderson Daronco during Argentina's 1-2 loss to Paraguay.
La Albiceleste have now registered 25 points from 12 games in the CONMEBOL qualifiers. They are also five points ahead of second-placed Uruguay in the standings. Ecuador and Colombia currently occupy the third and fourth spots, respectively, with 19 points each.
How did Lionel Messi perform against Peru?
Despite not finding the back of the net, Lionel Messi was one of Argentina's most remarkable players against Peru.
Messi registered one assist in the game and completed two successful take-ons, which was the most by a player on the pitch. The Argentine captain also created the most chances in the game (three).
Messi won seven duels and was the most fouled player during the game (five). He remains the player with the most goals (six) in the CONMEBOL qualifiers.
Argentina will face Uruguay and Brazil in the next international break in March 2025.