Lionel Messi VAR controversy sparks South Africa head coach criticism amid Themba Zwane’s ban

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has used Lionel Messi ’s World Cup controversy to question the severity of Themba Zwane ’s suspension.

Zwane was sent off in South Africa’s 2-0 defeat to Mexico on June 11 after catching Roberto Alvarado in the face in the 84th minute. FIFA later handed him a three-match ban for violent conduct, leaving Bafana Bafana without a key midfielder for a crucial stretch.

The frustration is not just about losing Zwane. Broos believes the punishment looks even harsher when compared with a Messi challenge that went without a card.

Sport Africa shared Broos’ frustration after he compared Zwane’s suspension with Messi avoiding punishment against Algeria .

Broos first raised the issue before South Africa’s match against Czechia, saying, “I think that the red card is too severe.”

He then referenced the Messi incident, adding: “I don’t think it was a red card when I see what happened yesterday with [Lionel] Messi. I don’t agree, certainly not. I think there was not even a VAR with Messi,” Broos later added.

Broos also argued that Zwane had been impeded before making contact, saying: “When you see the situation, the Mexican player blocked my player…When you get the red card for that, and then a three-game suspension. I’m sorry, but this is much, much too severe.”

Broos had already questioned the decision after the Mexico defeat, saying: “The ‌second red card we can discuss. It was the Mexican player who was blocking my player. But it’s the position of the referee, and we have to accept it also, but I think it was too soft ⁠to give that as a red card.”