Lionel Messi told a referee to treat him with respect during Argentina’s World Cup quarterfinal. Crypto markets, predictably, paid attention.

During Argentina’s 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in Kansas City on July 11, Messi got into a heated exchange with Portuguese referee João Pedro Pinheiro over a defensive wall setup. The moment was captured on camera and went viral almost immediately, with Messi’s words cutting through the stadium noise.

“Talk to me properly. Don’t disrespect me. I talk to you respectfully.”

Fan tokens catch fire during tournament drama

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