Raphinha has seen his “very bad” behaviour questioned by a former Brazil star, with the Barcelona forward accused of “disrespecting” Argentina.
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- Barcelona star ready for crunch clash
- Comments have attracted criticism
- No Messi or Neymar on show
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Two old adversaries are set to lock horns in 2026 World Cup qualifying on Tuesday. The current holders of a global crown will be without eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi for that contest, as the Inter Miami talisman was forced to withdraw through injury.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Raphinha has stated that Messi’s absence gives Brazil more of a chance in a crucial contest, with the 2025 Golden Ball contender saying that he will be giving “everything” to score against arch-rivals. He signed off a conversation with Romario with a “f*ck them” quip as the Selecao ready themselves for battle.
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WHAT PAULO SILAS SAID
The 28-year-old is understandably fired up for another grudge match, but has been told that he needs to think carefully about what he says in public. Ex-Brazil international Paulo Silas has told when asked for his take on Raphinha’s comments: “It was disrespectful of that kid. He should have seen Messi here when he won the Copa America and didn't let his team-mates sing against Brazil because of the friendship he has with Neymar and the respect.”
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DID YOU KNOW?
Silas, who won 34 caps for his country and represented them at the 1986 and 1990 World Cup finals, added: “Raphinha was very bad. Brazil should not do it if they were above Argentina and now that they are not either. Football does not look the way he said it. I don't know what message he wanted to pass, but you don't win before you play a game.”
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