Former Liverpool midfielder sent off for kicking a medic (video)
It’s a widely known fact that Argentina’s Javier Mascherano doesn’t possess the sort of character one might expect of a model professional but, even by his standards, kicking out at a medic is surely a step too far.
Yet, in last night’s World Cup qualifying clash between Argentina and Ecuador, that’s exactly what the 29-year-old did. Not once I may add, but twice.
Known for his fiery nature and combative attitude to the game, the diminutive Argentine is no stranger to the games disciplinary procedures but, even by his standards, last night was a step too far.
It all started in the 86th minute when, with the game heading for a draw, Mascherano was forced off after requiring treatment. Riding off the field, supposedly too injured limp off of his own esteem, the Barcelona hard-man could clearly be seen lashing out at the driver, after some water appeared to be thrown at him, kicking him twice in the arm.
Seemingly enraged that someone had the indecency to waste some freshly bottled water in his presence, the former Liverpool and West Ham man showed the petulant side of him that has rarely been seen since his move to Barcelona.
Perhaps fortuitously for, both, himself and his team-mates however, his immediate sending off had little effect on the match itself despite Enrique Caceres promptly rewarding his petulance with a straight red card.
Following his dismissal, and still upset at the perceived injustice of it all, Mascherano could then be seen to shout at the medic before, after both benches erupted, riot police calmed the situation down.
After the game, aware of the stupidity of his actions, Mascherano tweeted “I really apologise for the reaction I had, nothing justifies this. Great team work and effort!”
The game in itself had finished even after Manchester City‘s Sergio Aguero had opened the scoring from the penalty spot with just four minutes on the clock. However, the hosts drew level through Segundo Castillo shortly after as the game finished a draw, leaving Argentina top of their qualifying group, 3 points clear of second-placed Columbia.
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