MESSI’S ANGER WITH JAMES BOILS OVER: PREVIOUS BEEF BROUGHT TO THE FOREVER AGAIN

James Rodríguez and Lionel Messi crossed paths once more at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Más Monumental, a year after their last meeting in the 2024 Copa América final – a match Argentina won thanks to a goal from Lautaro Martínez.

In this latest encounter, a World Cup qualifier that ended 1-1, the tone was set early. Messi offered a lukewarm handshake to James during the pre-match captain’s coin toss. It seemed nothing more than a passing image – until the 72nd minute.

That’s when things boiled over between the Argentine and the Colombian, with a visibly irritated Messi confronting James. Cameras caught the moment: Messi appeared to be demanding an explanation, while James looked puzzled, seemingly unaware of what had provoked the reaction. The pair covered their mouths and exchanged words for several tense seconds.

“I didn’t say anything,” James was seen telling Messi, trying to defuse the situation.

The exchange occurred just after Enzo Fernández was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Kevin Castaño. But the friction may have had deeper roots.

Story behind the Messi-James beef

Back in March, James had stirred controversy by suggesting the referee favored Argentina in the Copa América final. “The referee had a big influence. He didn’t give us any penalties – one or two. To me, at least one was clear,” James said at the time.

“I’m not making excuses, but we came into that match in great form, played a good final, and they scored three minutes before penalties. I’m not saying they didn’t deserve to win, but a lot of things went against us.”

Following the 1-1 draw at River Plate’s home ground, Colombia remain sixth in the standings with 22 points, while Argentina tighten their grip on the top spot with 35.