Lionel Messi slammed for desperate attempt to get Spain star sent off in World Cup final

Lionel Messi slammed for desperate attempt to get Spain star sent off in World Cup final Enzo Fernandez was sent off for Argentina during stoppage time in their World Cup final clash with Spain, but Lionel Messi also tried to get a Spain star sent off during the furore Lionel Messi was slammed by Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards and Joe Hart for trying to get Marc Cucurella sent off in sly fashion during the World Cup final. A moment of excitement sparked late into Argentina's clash with Spain at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, following a largely lacklustre 90 minutes, when Enzo Fernandez was shown an early exit. The Chelsea star, who was already on a yellow for dissent earlier in the match, bundled through Pau Curbasi needlessly during stoppage time, sending him feet into the air with a dangling leg and leaving him in a heap on the floor. Slavko Vincic didn't hesitate as he showed Fernandez a red card for the cynical foul, with immediate protests from the 25-year-old. However, it was during the furore that Messi attempted to immediately level the playing field by getting Cucurella sent off. Replays showed the Real Madrid full-back somewhat raising his hand to his face as he conversed with the Argentine captain. While his mouth wasn't fully covered, a new rule from FIFA in a bid to rub out racism has been implemented for this summer's tournament, which prevents players from speaking to opponents with their mouths covered. And while Cucurella may not have said anything sinister as he conversed with the 39-year-old, Messi was quick to flag to officials that Cucurella had covered his mouth. There will be more to follow on this breaking news story and Mirror Sport will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible. Please check back regularly for updates on this developing story. Follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, Twitter, Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.