Antonio Sanabria, the Paraguayan forward, has finally addressed the Lionel Messi spit scandal that erupted during their World Cup qualifier against Argentina. Sanabria has denied spitting at Lionel Messi before admitting that his family has received threats as a result of the event. This comes after photographs surfaced of Sanabria, a Barcelona youth product, spitting in the direction of Messi during Paraguay’s match against Argentina.
Sanabria wrote on his Instagram Stories: “I feel obliged to go out and deny what happened last night. For the simple fact of seeing my family affected and due to multiple threats for an event that never happened.
“I would never do anything similar to any colleague or any person out of respect. What example would I be giving to my daughters by committing an act like that? I recommend that you see all the images.” Antonio Sanabria added.
Messi and Sanabria exchanged words before Messi walked away and looked to spit in his direction. It even prompted the Argentine to respond angrily after the game. Despite Messi’s lack of recognition for Sanabria, the Paraguayan will be well acquainted with his opposing number.
After the match, Messi was asked about the spit saga to which the star player “My team-mates told me about it in the locker room. It is better to leave the issue alone. I don’t know who this guy is. I don’t want to give him importance either. Because if he gets that he’s going to go out and talk everywhere. “
Despite the intensity of the game, Argentina won 1-0 and maintained their flawless start in their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Messi and company have won three games in a row, with Nicolas Otamendi’s goal important in their victory over Paraguay. Argentina’s next World Cup qualifier will be against Peru on October 18.