Ahead of Paraguay's World Cup qualifier against Argentina this Thursday, November 14, at the Defensores del Chaco stadium in Asunción, a controversial rule has sparked debate. Paraguay's football director, Fernando Villasboa, announced that fans wearing jerseys of Argentina, Barcelona, or Inter Miami with Messi's name will not be allowed entry into the stadium.

In an interview with Radio La Red, Villasboa explained the decision, stating: "No one is allowed to wear jerseys of the Argentina national team, Argentine clubs, or clubs with the names of foreign players. We want the Defensores del Chaco to be painted in the colors of the Albirroja to give the players the support they deserve from the stands, as we are all playing this game in our own way."

This rule, which seems directed at Messi’s massive global fan base, had already been enforced in Paraguay's previous match against Brazil. Fans wearing Vinícius Júnior jerseys were denied entry to the stadium in a similar move to avoid potential tensions. The reasoning behind such a policy is to maintain order and ensure safety inside and around the stadium.

As for the World Cup qualification standings, Argentina leads the South American group with 22 points, three points ahead of Colombia, while Paraguay sits in sixth place with 13 points. The sixth-place team is currently the last to hold a guaranteed spot for the global tournament. The controversial measure highlights the emotional and political stakes involved in this highly anticipated match.