Lionel Messi’s Jersey Banned in Stands by Paraguay FA During ARG vs PAR FIFA 2026 World Cup Qualifier Match in Asuncion: Report
To exert a ‘complete’ home advantage, the Paraguay FA banned Lionel Messi’s Argentina jersey in the stands. Officials confirm the news.
Reigning World Cup Winner Argentina National Football Team will face Paraguay in the 2026 World Cup Qualifier Match in 2026 World Cup Qualifier Match in Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asuncion. The title holders are at the top of the table in the CONMEBOL region. Paraguay has also maintained a steady record in the group and is currently in sixth place, just above the qualification criteria. So, when they are facing the Argentine side at home, they want to have a complete ‘home advantage’ and the solution for the same would be to avoid an opponent’s Jersey in the fans’ sitting area. Since Argentina is playing the match, it is rather easy to ban most selling jerseys -Lionel Messi’s number 10 jersey. Lionel Messi Joins Argentina National Football Team Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers (See Photos).
As per a report from EFE, Paraguay wants to avoid seeing the stands filled with rival jerseys and Messi 10, being the most worn jersey got banned. With that in mind, Fernando Villasboa – the licensing manager of the Paraguayan FA told EFE "We have already warned that in the local sectors, we will not allow access to jerseys that are not from Paraguay, or perhaps neutral ones, but not from the rival." Lionel Messi Reacts After Inter Miami’s Exit From MLS Cup 2024, Says ‘Get Ready to Come Back Stronger Next Year’ (See Post).
He also added that no "jerseys from clubs that contain the names of rival team players will be allowed. This is not an issue against any player; we have great respect for the careers of all footballers. It's just that home advantage is essential for us." Interestingly Messi’s jersey was earlier banned from an MLS league match and even so, Paraguay had similar measures when facing Brazil on September 10 and the same rules will remain in place for meetings with Chile and Colombia in March 2025.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 12, 2024 04:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).