Raphinha’s savage X-rated message to Argentina in Messi’s absence forward of Brazil conflict
Raphinha delivered a brutal X-rated two-word message to the Argentina team, who are missing Lionel Messi, ahead of Brazil’s World Cup qualifying clash
Barcelona star Raphinha sent a threatening message to Lionel Messi and Argentina ahead of Brazil’s World Cup qualifying clash.
The former Leeds United winger has enjoyed a remarkable season as he spearheads Barcelona’s La Liga title push and Champions League hopes, scoring 27 goals and assisting 20 in all competitions.
However, attention has turned to Brazil’s grudge match against Argentina, with the Selecao seven points behind their South American rivals after overcoming a woeful start to their qualifying campaign.
Raphinha scored from the penalty spot in Brazil’s 2-1 win against Colombia last week and the 28-year-old has vowed to find the back of the net again against an Argentina team without the injured Lionel Messi.
Ahead of the game, Raphinha spoke to Selecao legend Romario, who asked: “We are going to play against Argentina, our biggest rival. Now, thank God, without Messi, are we going to beat them?”
“We will beat them, no doubt. On and off the pitch, if we have to,” Raphinha warned.
Romario then asked: “Are you going to try to score a goal against Argentina?” To which Raphinha replied: “Yes, with everything,”
The former Barcelona forward then intensified the rivalry between the two nations, as he said: “F*** them?” Seeing Raphinha agreed: “F** them.”
Brazil are unbeaten in their last five CONMEBOL qualifying matches, winning three. But they remain just two points ahead of sixth place Colombia, showing just how poorly they had begun qualification.
The top six nations in South American qualifying will each automatically book a spot at the World Cup, while seventh place will enter the inter-confederation play-offs.
Brazil have not beaten Argentina in their last four contests – losing three of them 1-0 and drawing the other 0-0. The Selecao’s last victory over their arch rivals came with a 2-0 win at the Copa America in July 2019.
