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Brazil vs Argentina result: Lionel Messi rages for not using VAR in Copa America exit

  • Brazil vs Argentina result: Lionel Messi rages for not using VAR in Copa America exit
    Messi: "Referees gave so many stupid fouls in this Copa America but today VAR wasn't consulted once" Brazil vs Argentina result: Lionel Messi rages for not using VAR in Copa America exit
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Brazil 2-0 Argentina: Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino struck as the hosts advanced to the final at the expense of their bitter rivals

Lionel Messi has blasted officials for Argentina's loss to Brazil, slams VAR absence in Copa semi-final

The hosts ran out 2-0 winners in Belo Horizonte, with Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino scoring.

But the Barcelona superstar was furious that the video assistant referee (VAR) system was not utilised to inform two shouts for a penalty. Three Uruguay goals in their quarter-final exit to Peru were chalked off as well as strikes for Chile in their last eight game with Colombia.

And after yet more heartache with Argentina, Messi did not hold back in his criticism at the way it has been used.

Messi:

"Referees gave so many stupid fouls in this Copa America but today VAR wasn't consulted once," he told reporters.

"This should be looked into and I hope Conmebol do something with these referees who unbalance the pitch by favouring a team.

"The truth is we're angry because we played very well, we put in a huge effort and for it to end like this makes us sad."

Messi said the referee had shown Argentina no respect.

"I spoke to the referee and he said he would respect us that he would look after us but at no moment did I see that."

Aguero appeared to be tripped by Dani Alves in the second half but no foul was given and Brazil immediately launched a counterattack which saw Roberto Firmino double their advantage.

Argentina defender Juan Foyth was so stunned that a foul was not given that he did not rush back to halt a run by Gabriel Jesus which led to the goal.