Ankara Messi: What does this phrase mean, and where did it come from?
Football![Ankara Messi: What does this phrase mean, and where did it come from?](https://images.sportsbrief.com/images/320x180/03f30d0eadd93f44.webp?v=1)
Argentina got a rare win against Brazil last week in the South American 2026 World Cup qualifiers at the Maracana.
However, the match was filled with drama, as always. It was delayed for 30 minutes because of violence, and players clashed on the pitch during the game, including Lionel Messi and Rodrygo Goes.
The two appeared to be in a heated argument, something which the Brazilian has finally addressed.
The discussion between Messi and Rodrygo happened as Argentina returned to the field after they walked off following the violent clashes between Argentina fans and the police.
According to TyC Sports, via GOAL, the Real Madrid star apparently called Argentina players "cowards." Messi responded by saying, "We are the world champions, why are we cowards? Watch your mouth."
Ankara Messi: What does this phrase mean, and where did it come from?
FootballNicolas Otamendi's 83rd-minute goal handed Brazil their third straight defeat in the qualifiers and their first-ever home loss in a World Cup qualifier.
After the game, Messi took to Instagram to condemn the violence.
"This team continues to make history... Great victory in the Maracana although it will be marked by the repression of the Argentinians once again in Brazil. This can't be tolerated, it's crazy and it needs to end now!!"
After Real Madrid beat Napoli 4-2 in the Champions League, the 22-year-old was asked about his argument with Messi. He scored Madrid's first goal.
“Messi? I can’t talk about this. Why? Madrid won’t let me," via Madrid Xtra.
Rodrygo has now scored in Real Madrid's last four games. With Vinicius Junior injured, the youngster will carry the scoring burden for Real Madrid alongside Bellingham.
We definitely haven't seen the last of Messi vs Rodrygo. The two teams will meet again on March 25, 2025, but a few things might change before that clash. Argentina are top of the standings, with 15 points after six games. Brazil are 6th with seven points.
How Messi could be convinced to play at 2026 World Cup, according to his Argentina teammate
FootballExciting news! We have a WhatsApp channel 🤩
➡️ Click to join our channel for all your favourite sports news.
Real Madrid narrowed the gap to their title rivals, Girona, with a 5-1 victory over Ruben Baraja's Valencia side, Sports Brief reported.
Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes delivered a masterclass performance for the team, playing a pivotal role in four of his side's five goals.
The young attacker scored two goals, as well as assisted two other goals for Brazilian teammate Vinicius Junior, as Madrid ran riot.