Maradona wants FIFA to suspend Messi for two matches

The Argentine legend believes that a two-match suspension is fair for Messi, instead of being acquitted as in the recent decision.

Messi and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) have successfully appealed a four-match ban from FIFA after he was found guilty of insulting a linesman during a match against Chile. The Barca forward was cleared of the charge and will be able to play in all four of Argentina's remaining 2018 World Cup qualifiers.

* The moment Messi was accused of insulting the linesman.

However, FIFA's clean dismissal surprised even a big name in Argentine football like Maradona. According to the 1986 World Cup champion, Messi should only have his sentence reduced by half.

"I tried to help Messi but I really didn't know what to do in this case," Maradona explained on Radio La Red. "The people there first said four games and then suddenly cleared the remaining three. It's completely absurd and I think Messi should take another one-match suspension. I say this with my heart in my hands."

Messi was forced to sit out the match against Bolivia as part of a four-match suspension, which saw Argentina lose 2-0 away, leaving them in fifth place in the South American qualifying round for the 2018 World Cup.

Maradona was pleased that Messi's sentence was reduced but justice is still needed. Photo: Reuters.

"I'm happy," said Maradona. "We have to congratulate everyone who helped Messi get his suspension reduced."

Messi's return is a big deal for Argentina. But some players were upset by the Argentine superstar's acquittal. Chile midfielder Vidal said Messi was treated much more favourably than other players.

According to VNE