Qatar 2022: Messi Says Netherlands Coach Van Gaal ‘Disrespected’ Him Before Argentina Win

Lionel Messi said he felt “disrespected” by Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal after Argentina beat the Dutch 4-3 on penalties in a thrilling World Cup quarterfinal at on Friday.

Messi assisted Argentina’s first goal then scored a second from the penalty spot as Argentina took a seemingly commanding 2-0 lead in the 73rd minute. But two late goals from Dutch substitute Wout Weghorst, sent the match to extra time and eventually a penalty shootout.

After his goal, Messi directed a celebration toward the Dutch coaching staff and then confronted Van Gaal after the match.

Van Gaal had suggested ahead of the quarterfinal that Messi did little to help his team when they don’t have the ball.