Messi’s Frustration with Zambrano: “What’s Your Problem, Idiot?”

Argentina concluded their 2024 campaign with a hard-fought victory over Peru, maintaining their top spot in the South American World Cup qualifiers (25 points) and their position at the top of the FIFA rankings. Lautaro Martínez scored the decisive goal, assisted by Lionel Messi, ensuring the reigning world champions continued their dominance since their 2022 Qatar triumph.

For Messi, this match marked the end of his competitive year. With Inter Miami out of the MLS playoffs and coach Gerardo Martino stepping down, the 37-year-old superstar’s club season is over. Messi delivered a stellar performance, creating the winning goal with a moment of brilliance. However, his on-field clash with Carlos Zambrano stole much of the spotlight.

The Peruvian defense adopted a highly defensive strategy, creating significant obstacles for Messi and his teammates. Peru’s compact formation left little room for Argentina’s attack to thrive. The game was riddled with fouls and aggressive plays, making it a tough contest for the Argentine captain. Despite these challenges, Messi displayed his magic in the 55th minute. After Julián Álvarez’s aggressive run on the left, Messi threaded a pinpoint cross through three defenders to Lautaro Martínez, who converted with an acrobatic bicycle kick to break the deadlock.

Peru’s approach heavily relied on tactical fouls to disrupt Argentina’s attacks before they could gather momentum. Messi was repeatedly targeted and brought down during the game. At one point, Carlos Zambrano shoved him to the ground as Messi was preparing to take a shot. Messi got back on his feet and confronted Zambrano, exclaiming, “What’s your problem, idiot?” The moment evoked memories of his iconic remark to Dutch player Wout Weghorst during the Qatar World Cup quarter-finals.

This was Messi’s final match of 2024, and he now heads into a well-deserved break. The upcoming year promises new challenges, with Messi expected to play at least six more qualifiers and participate in friendly matches on the FIFA calendar. As the road to the 2026 World Cup unfolds, Messi could play up to ten more matches, potentially adding another chapter to his illustrious career.