Referee camera: Vincic begged Messi to control Paredes during World Cup final

New footage from the referee’s camera has put Slovenia’s Slavko Vincic at the centre of attention after the World Cup final in New York between Argentina and Spain, a match Spain won 1:0 after extra time. The clip shows Vincic repeatedly urging Argentina captain Lionel Messi to keep an eye on his teammate Leandro Paredes, who had already been booked.

Referee asks Messi to calm a teammate

Vincic — the referee appointed to the final — is shown in the footage speaking directly to Messi during several stoppages, clearly concerned about Paredes’ behaviour on the pitch. The unusual audio has reignited debate about how officials try to manage volatile players in high‑pressure games.

According to the video, Vincic warned Messi about Paredes’ prior cautions and urged the captain to intervene: “Messi, control Paredes. He has a yellow card. Please control him. Always, always you have to suffer for him.” The exchange demonstrates the referee’s attempt to enlist a team leader in preventing further misconduct.

Paredes entered the match at half‑time and was frequently involved in aggressive challenges. He was heavily criticised after the game for provoking a brawl that continued at the final whistle; footage shows him grabbing Eric García by the neck, pushing Gavi and striking several opponents. FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings related to his actions.

Vincic had already cautioned Paredes in the 52nd minute following early rough play in the second half. The tensions on the pitch also led to Argentina finishing with ten men: Enzo Fernández was sent off in extra time after receiving a second yellow card.

The referee camera clip has circulated widely online and prompted discussion about the balance referees must strike between enforcing the rules directly and using players — especially captains — to help keep the game under control.

Photo: press material from the event