Ban three months to Lionel Messi after a comment "corrupt"



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Argentine captain Lionel Messi was banned from international football for three months after declaring the Copa America "corrupt".

Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi.
Photo: Photosport

Barcelona striker Messi, aged 32, was ruled out in Argentina's 2-1 win over Chile and then said that "the cut was set in Brazil".

He was also fined $ 50,000 (£ 41,121) by Conmebol, the South American Football Confederation.

Messi has seven days to appeal Conmebol's decision to suspend him.

This ban means that Messi will miss the next friendly matches against Chile, Mexico and Germany in September and October.

Argentina's qualifying campaign for the 2022 World Cup begins in March 2020.

As a result of Argentina's 2-0 defeat in the semi-final against Brazil, the Argentine Football Federation has complained of "serious mistakes in arbitration".

In response, Mr. Conmebol stated that the allegations involving the integrity of the Copa America were "unfounded" and "represented a lack of respect".

Messi received a red card in the 37th minute against Chile, following a clash with Gary Medel, who was also sacked.

"We must not be part of this corruption," said Messi. "They showed us a lack of respect throughout this tournament.

"Unfortunately, corruption, referees, they do not allow people to enjoy football, they have a little ruined."

– BBC

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