An unexpected scandal erupted within the Brazilian national team. Barcelona striker Rafinha Diaz was furious at the decision made by national team head coach Carlo Ancelotti in the last game.
On September 10, Brazil faced Bolivia in the final match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. A surprising result was recorded in this match - Brazil suffered an unexpected defeat against a strong opponent (0:1).
Rafinha started the match as a substitute and only entered the game in the 61st minute. According to Diario Sport, the player was strongly dissatisfied with the coach's decision. In his opinion, the match had no strategic significance, and the high pressure and difficult climatic conditions posed a risk to the players' health.
As is known, the stadium, located in La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, is located at an altitude of 4,100 meters above sea level. In such conditions, oxygen deficiency, additional pressure on the body, and high load create great difficulties for football players. Furthermore, the air temperature during the meeting was only eight degrees Celsius.
Rafinha is reportedly furious about being put on the pitch in such difficult conditions. Insiders around him reported that the footballer was at risk to his health and did not understand the coach's decision.
Ancelotti, commenting on his decision at a press conference, said, "The team trusts every player, and Rafinha should have contributed to the game as an experienced striker."
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