Portuguese referee explains controversial Messi interaction and Embolo red card in World Cup match

Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro has shed light on a contentious moment from the 2026 World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and Switzerland. In a recent interview with Portugal's Channel 11, Pinheiro addressed his interaction with Lionel Messi and the decision to send off Swiss player Breel Embolo, a call that involved VAR.

Regarding his conversation with Messi, Pinheiro described it as a natural exchange that happens between players and referees. "Captains usually talk a bit more, and the new rules allow for it," he explained. He emphasized that such interactions are normal and even healthy, stating, "We talk, and when we talk, we understand each other. It was a specific incident of the match, and we move on." He acknowledged that interactions with high-profile players like Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo might be perceived differently but are fundamentally standard occurrences in football.

The expulsion of Embolo, which occurred after a VAR review, was a key point of discussion. Pinheiro clarified that the initial perception was that an Argentine player committed a foul warranting a yellow card. However, VAR indicated no foul and instead suggested a simulation by the opposing player. Upon reviewing the situation, Pinheiro confirmed the simulation, which led to Embolo's second yellow card and subsequent red card. "If it had been the first, the decision would have been the same," he noted, highlighting FIFA's rule changes aimed at improving the game.

Pinheiro expressed his approval of recent rule changes, believing they have had a positive impact on referees and the integrity of the game. "I think the changes made all point towards better play," he concluded. The match itself was marked by controversy, but the referee's explanation aims to provide clarity on his decisions during a high-stakes World Cup fixture.