Argentina’s Rodrigo de Paul received both praise and scorn for his dramatic play-acting during the Copa America semi-final against Canada. The Atletico Madrid midfielder was mocked for his exaggerated reaction after a challenge from Stephen Eustáquio in Argentina’s 2-0 victory.
Despite minimal contact, De Paul fell theatrically, prompting Ismael Koné to kick the ball at him in frustration. De Paul then rolled on the ground, clutching his back, which led to a yellow card for Koné. Fans were quick to ridicule De Paul’s performance, with some humorously suggesting he deserved an Oscar for his “acting.”
Critics compared his antics to a “bad TikTok skit,” while Canada’s coach Jesse Marsch expressed his disapproval from the sidelines. Viewers also condemned De Paul for setting a poor example, accusing him of encouraging diving in soccer.
Amid the mockery, some fans ironically approved of Koné’s yellow card. Earlier in the match, Julian Alvarez scored Argentina’s first goal, assisted by De Paul, and Lionel Messi secured the win with a second goal. Argentina will now face the winner of Uruguay vs. Colombia in the final.
Rodrigo de Paul
This season he played in total 34 times for 2087 minutes for La Liga.
Rodrigo de Paul scored 3 goals for Atlético Madrid. He procured 5 assists. He received 7 yellow cards and no red cards.
His team is currently 4th in La Liga. In the last match Atlético Madrid won 2-0 against Real Sociedad.
Atlético Madrid performance and stats
Atlético Madrid is currently 4th in the La Liga with 70 points.
In the last 38 games, it has won 24 times, drawn 4 times, and lost 10 times. In its last match, Atlético Madrid won 0-2 against Real Sociedad.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 64 goals and conceding 39.