Retired Chilean referee Carlos Chandia has made a startling revelation about his officiating during a crucial 2007 Copa America semi-final between Argentina and Mexico. Chandia admitted that he chose not to issue a yellow card to Lionel Messi, despite a clear handball offence, in exchange for the Argentine’s match-worn jersey.
During the match, Argentina led 3-0, and Messi who was one booking away from suspension handled the ball. This was a straightforward yellow card offence, which could have ruled him out of the final. However, Chandia opted for leniency, later recalling in an interview, “I told him, ‘This is a yellow card, but it will cost you your jersey,’ and I didn’t show him the card.”
Messi, understanding the deal, later handed over the shirt privately in the dressing room. Chandia has since passed the prized jersey to his son. Despite this leniency, Chandia revealed that his decision not to book Messi likely cost him the chance to officiate the tournament’s final, stating, Because I didn’t give him the yellow card, Brazilians ended up saying something, and that’s why I wasn’t the main referee for the final.”
Ironically, Argentina lost the final 3-0 to Brazil, despite Messi’s participation. Chandia’s controversial decision, though personally rewarding, has stirred discussions about ethical officiating in football.
