Raphinha restrained by Endrick after run-ins with Emi Martinez & Leandro Paredes as tensions spill over following Argentina's rout of Brazil - but Lionel Scaloni 'forgives' Barcelona star for X-rated pre-match taunts

The Brazil star was on his way to the changing rooms after the embarrassing loss before he was bumped out of the way, seemingly on purpose, by Aston Villa goalkeeper Martinez. Words were then exchanged with Roma midfielder Leandro Paredes, causing Raphinha to change course and make a dart towards his South American rivals. However, team-mate Endrick grabbed him before the Barcelona winger could do any damage and he was eventually led away by Joelinton.

Raphinha was the villain all night in Buenos Aires after making strong pre-match comments about the 2022 World Cup winners. He said: "We will beat them, no doubt. On and off the pitch, if we have to. F*ck them." Despite this, Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni forgave the 28-year-old, suggesting he never meant any harm with his words.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Scaloni said: "I didn't read his statements, and I didn't watch them again. In the end, Argentina, with or without his statements, was going to play its game.

"I forgive him. I'm sure he didn't mean to hurt anyone. I understand the situation; that's not why we played like that, on the contrary. I know he didn't say it on purpose; it was to motivate his team.

"Maybe some wanted a heated game, but not because of what he said. I forgive him and I understand."

After being subjected to sarcastic chants of "sub on Raphinha" all evening from the Argentina fans, the Ballon d'Or hopeful will be glad to return to Spain. He remains a frontrunner for the prestigious award and will be hoping to strengthen his case by winning the treble at Barcelona.