3 Argentine World Cup winners accused of sexual assault

Argentina celebrate winning the World Cup in 2022

3 Argentine World Cup winners accused of sexual assault

Ayoola Kelechi 23:48 - 16.06.2024

This revelation comes just a week before the start of the Copa America 2024 in the United States, casting a shadow over the team's preparations.

Colombian radio journalist Javier Hernandez Bonnet revealed the allegations against Thiago Almada, Angel Correa, and Exequiel Palacios, members of the Argentine team that won the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

Journalist reveals sexual assault charges against Argentine players

On the program 'Blog Deportivo' on Blu Radio, Hernandez Bonnet disclosed that during his investigation into legal cases involving another footballer Sebastian Villa, he uncovered allegations of sexual assault against the three Argentine players.

Thiago Almada, Angel Correa, and Exequiel Palacios | Imago
Thiago Almada, Angel Correa, and Exequiel Palacios | Imago Thiago Almada, Angel Correa, and Exequiel Palacios | Imago

At the beginning of the radio program on June 14, Hernandez Bonnet shared his findings, saying "I have news that is going to shake things up. Initially, I thought it was related to former Boca Juniors striker Sebastian Villa," he said. "But as I investigated, I discovered something even more significant. This is a story that will make headlines across South America and the world."

Hernandez Bonnet's conversation with Juan José Buscalia, an Argentine national and regular panelist, unveiled that the allegations stemmed from an incident at a party in Puerto Madero. According to Hernandez Bonnet's source, a reputable lawyer familiar with the Villa case, the incident involved three Argentine national team players.

Impact on Copa America and Olympic Plans

The players accused are currently in preparation for major upcoming events. Correa and Palacios are part of the group training for the 2024 Copa America, although their inclusion in the final list of 26 players remains uncertain. Thiago Almada, on the other hand, has been selected for the Olympic Games Paris 2024, but his participation is now in doubt.

Lionel Messi captained Argentina to victory in the Copa America in July 2021 | Imago
Lionel Messi captained Argentina to victory in the Copa America in July 2021 | Imago Lionel Messi captained Argentina to victory in the Copa America in July 2021 | Imago

These revelations could significantly disrupt Argentina's plans, potentially leading to the exclusion of the accused players to avoid distraction and controversy within the team. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has yet to make an official statement regarding the allegations.

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