17 November 2023 , 11:50
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Lionel Messi accused Uruguay of lacking respect after Argentina were downed by Darwin Nunez and co in a crucial World Cup qualifier.
The world champions had not lost or even conceded a goal since lifting the World Cup trophy in Qatar last December and headed into the match against Marcelo Bielsa 's side having won 19 of their last 20 fixtures.
But Argentina succumbed to a surprise 2-0 defeat courtesy of goals from Ronald Araujo and Nunez, who scored following a fine run in the 87th minute to put the game beyond doubt. Unfortunately, the match was marred by some unsavoury scenes involving both sides.
Messi, 36, was in the thick of the drama on the field and escaped punishment for putting his hands round the throat of opposition defender Mathias Olivera following a clash involving Rodrigo de Paul.
And the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner hit out at his opponents on social media after the final whistle. He posted: “I prefer not to say what I think about some gestures. But these young people have to learn to respect from their elders. This game was always intense and hard but always with a lot of respect. They have to learn a little bit.”
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Nunez's contribution against the world champions sees him maintain his excellent recent form. The striker, 24, has plundered seven goals and laid on six assists in all competitions for Liverpool so far this term after enduring a challenging maiden campaign at Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp admitted earlier this month that Nunez was finally beginning to show what he is really capable of, 12 months after joining the Reds from Benfica in an £85million deal.
Join the debate! What have you made of Nunez so far this season? Let us know here.
Lionel Messi hit out at Uruguay on social media after the match (Getty Images)“It’s the riddle of the life of a striker. You have a few goals already and it makes it easier. He always will miss chances but if you miss the first five before you score it doesn’t feel great. Now he has had a good start to the season and he has scored fantastic goals, different goals, all kinds of goals. He’s in a different moment.”
Nunez and Uruguay will face Bolivia next Tuesday before the forward returns to Liverpool for domestic action. Messi and Argentina will be aiming to bounce back against Brazil on Wednesday.