Paredes responded to the accusations of courtesy to Argentina. We don’t care what people say.

Criticisms of Messi’s teammates have increased

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has responded to growing allegations that referees and FIFA are favoring the reigning champions at the 2026 World Cup, strongly denying any bias in favor of the Albiceleste.

In a press conference with Argentine media on Sunday evening, a visibly upset former Boca Juniors player said: “I don’t see where the argument is. The rules are simple. The competitor pretended to be injured and I did not touch him. The decision was right.”

Paredes’ comments come in light of the wave of criticism Argentina have faced since the tournament began, with many football fans around the world believing referees and the International Federation are doing everything they can to prevent Argentina from winning the title again.

Several refereeing decisions sparked widespread controversy in the reigning champions’ matches, most notably the disallowance of Argentina’s goal against Egypt in the round of 16, followed by the sending off of Switzerland’s Brielle Embolo in the quarter-final match, which many saw as a controversial decision.

Switzerland’s coach Murat Yakin strongly criticized the referee’s decision after the exit from the tournament, saying: “We were much better than Argentina. Football did not win. We were punished for an unjustified mistake. It was an innocent situation and not intentional. The referee’s mistake ruined our whole plan.”

The Swiss coach added: “There was clear contact and I don’t understand how the referee and VAR came to this conclusion. Switzerland had a right to feel unfair.”

Paredes strongly responded to these accusations, stressing: “We don’t care what people say. Unfortunately, people will still talk and it’s part of the game. What we do is respond on the field.”

Paredes, who has been superb throughout the tournament, is expected to start in the much-anticipated semi-final against England next Wednesday night, in a game where refereeing decisions will once again come under intense scrutiny from fans.

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