Lionel Messi once avoided Copa América final suspension after jersey trade with ref
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Chilean official Carlos Chandia, who officiated the semi-final between Argentina and Mexico, admitted the controversial decision years later in an interview with ESPN.
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Key takeaways
- Referee spared Messi a yellow card in 2007 semi-final.
- Decision was made in exchange for Messi's shirt.
- Messi played the final, but Argentina lost 3-0.
The moment that changed the final
Argentina were comfortably leading 3-0 late in the match when Messi handled the ball in midfield - an offence that would normally result in a yellow card.However, Messi was already one booking away from suspension, meaning another caution would have ruled him out of the Copa América final against Brazil.
Chandia decided against showing the card.
There were two-and-a-half minutes left, and the score was 3-0. Showing him a yellow card would have taken away his chance of playing in the final.
The shirt deal
Instead of booking Messi, Chandia offered a surprising alternative.I told him, "This is a yellow card, but it will cost you your jersey," and I didn't show him the yellow card.Messi accepted the unusual deal and handed over his match-worn shirt after the game in the dressing room.
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Whilst the decision ensured Messi could play in the final, it later raised serious questions about officiating standards and fairness.Chandia himself admitted the incident may have cost him professionally, suggesting he was overlooked for refereeing the final as a result.
Despite Messi's availability, Argentina went on to lose 3-0 to Brazil in the final.
The revelation has resurfaced years later as one of football's most bizarre officiating stories, highlighting the fine margins and human decisions that can shape major tournaments.
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