Argentina’s forward, Lionel Messi has criticised referee Antonio Lahoz for his showing in Argentina’s quarter-final game against Netherlands in the FIFA World Cup on Friday.

The two-time World champions, won the game on penalties after been forced to penalty shootouts by a second half brace from Wout Weghorst. The 120 minutes of football was dominated by Lahoz’s constant stoppages in play, whistling and yellow cards.

Speaking to reporters after the win, Messi stated his belief that Lahoz can’t be allowed to referee in a game of this magnitude.

“I don’t want to talk about the referee because they sanction you for being honest. I think people saw what it was. FIFA cannot use this kind of referee for this type of match.” Messi said.

Lautaro Martinez scored the last penalty to send Argentina to the semi-finals where they will play Croatia for a place in the Final.

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