Fans can’t believe referee chosen for Copa America final after previous Lionel Messi incident

Fans are furious after finding out who will referee the Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia.

Argentina breezed past the Canadians with goals from Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi, who scored his first goal of the tournament.

The World Cup holders will now face Colombia in the final, as they look to become the first nation to win three consecutive major international tournaments since Spain.

Messi will have a tough task on his hands facing Colombia who have been inspired by the form of James Rodriguez this tournament, but Messi could have another issue on his hands following confirmation of Monday's referee.

Brazilian Raphael Claus will officiate the final, and it's fair to say he hasn't had the best relationship with Argentina's captain over the years.

Back in 2020 during Argentina's clash with Paraguay, the 8-time Ballon d'Or holder got particularly frustrated with Claus' decisions and was seen yelling "two times you've f**ked us," following a string of controversial decisions.

Fans are also baffled by the decision to have a Brazilian in charge of such a key Argentina match, considering the long-standing bitter rivalry between the two South American nations.

Raphael Clause- Getty

One fan wrote on X: A Brazilian ref in a Copa America final that has Argentina in it? Seriously?!!"

Another added: "They just don’t want Argentina to win it at this point."

A third commented: "Lmao Colombia will win then. This guy hates Messi."

However, one fan was quick to point out Brazil had also been refereed by an Argentine at this year's Copa America.

They wrote: "Did you cry when Brazil had an Argentinian ref in their last 2 matches? Deal with it."

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