In the friendly match between the U-20 teams of Argentina and Bolivia, a curious event occurred when Javier Mascherano, the coach of the Argentine team, requested that Bolivia not be left with one less player after the expulsion of Nathan Tito. The Bolivian player, called up from Platense, received a direct red card in the 13th minute for a harsh tackle on Lautaro Millán, leaving his team at a disadvantage.
Mascherano's act highlighted his sportsmanship by asking for the Bolivian player not to be sent off or to allow for his replacement. In a gesture of fair play, he approached the fourth referee to make this request, seeking to maintain the competitiveness of the match over regulatory formalities.
After discussing with the refereeing team and Bolivian coach Jorge Perotta, it was allowed for Renan Terrazas to enter in place of the expelled player, Tito. This uncommon decision in professional football underscored Mascherano's attitude, as he prioritized fair play and prevented the development of the match from being affected.
The gesture of the Argentine coach took place during a preparation friendly in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, demonstrating his commitment to fair play and his focus on maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of the competition.
