Image via Argentina national team.
The World Cup is an emotional event for everyone involved, but it was a little surprising to see Lionel Messi and Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni shed tears after the 3-0 win over Algeria. The veteran forward scored a historic hat-trick, but speculation quickly arose as to the motive for the tear.
Immediately after the 3-0 win over Algeria, it was reported that Messi’s family is suffering from a family illness, which is likely to be linked to his father, Jorge Messi. There were also reports in Argentina that he had died.
Messi family statement regarding Jorge Messi’s health
That was quickly denied by none other than Messi himself. Jorge Messi’s family issued a statement confirming that although he is “in poor health”, he is receiving treatment and is making a good recovery. They expressed surprise at the lack of respect for their privacy, pointing out that only the family has access to real information about the situation, and any other reports are completely false.
Argentina reporter resigns over Jorge Messi death report
The headwinds in Argentina were so great that at least one reporter lost his job. It was Florencia Pena who reported on Messi Sr. passed away and subsequently resigned. She announced the news live on Luzu TV and released the following statement on social media:
“I apologize to the Messi family for the terrible moment they may be experiencing. I am deeply ashamed to have been the vehicle for this suffering. I must make it clear that this false information was verified by the program’s production team and provided to me during the live broadcast, and I trusted it.”
“Nonetheless, I am responsible for my part in the mistake, so I have decided to step back and end my participation in Luzu. Once again, I sincerely apologize. It was my mistake.”
