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Javier Mascherano expressed his frustration after Argentina’s controversial 2-1 loss to Morocco in the opening match at the Paris Olympics, calling it “the biggest circus I have ever seen in my life!” The former midfielder, who boasts 147 international caps and 3 goals for Argentina, is no stranger to intense football moments, having been a key part of a dominant Barcelona side between 2010 and 2018.
🚨🇦🇷 Argentina Olympic manager Javier Mascherano: "It's the biggest circus I've ever seen in my life!" 🤬 (@juegosimple__)
Context: Medina's 90+16 equaliser vs Morocco was ruled out for offside more than 1 hour after the game was suspended. pic.twitter.com/IqXGbcIyCw
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) July 24, 2024
The match itself was full with controversy. Moroccan supporters invaded the pitch multiple times and threw projectiles at the Argentine team. The most arguable moment came when Argentina equalized in the 16th minute of added time. Chaos unfolded and many believed that the game has ended in 2-2 draw, but over an hour later the referees recalled both sides to the pitch. After a VAR review the goal was disallowed and Argentina and Morocco played another three minutes before the final whistle was blown.
Mascherano also revealed alarming security issues, noting that players were robbed during training session on Tuesday. “Thiago Almada was missing a watch, rings, everything!” he exclaimed. Mascherano criticized the authorities for the lack of security and poor organization.