Lionel Messi points the blame in furious interview after Argentina draw
Lionel Messi blamed the wet pitch at the Estadio Monumental de Maturin for Argentina's "ugly" 1-1 draw with Venezuela in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Nicolas Otamendi's first-half goal was cancelled out by a header from former West Brom, Newcastle and Everton striker Salomon Rondon and Messi was not happy with the state of the pitch which had been soaked by the heavy rainfall in Venezuela.
The game was initially delayed as a result of the rain, but play eventually went ahead with both teams sharing the points. Argentina are currently top of the CONMEBOL standings with 19 points, while Venezuela sit seventh.
The top six teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup, while the side that finishes seventh will enter the play-offs. Reflecting on the draw with Venezuela, Messi told Argentine broadcas...