Marquinhos reveals he was struggling with diarrhea in semi-final battle with Messi

July 6, 2019 By Ali M.

Topics: Marquinhos, Lionel Messi, Argentina, Brazil, Copa America

The Brazilian opened up about his ordeal from Brazil's 2-0 win over Argentina.

Marquinhos had work cut out for him in Brazil's semi-final clash with Argentina, but according to the player, his only struggle wasn't merely halting the Albiceleste aces.

The Selecao center-back came across the likes of Messi, Aguero, and Martinez and was tasked with preventing those deadly forwards from scoring while fighting diarrhea and vomiting. The 25-year-old admitted after the victory that marking the five-time Ballon d'Or winner in particular given his stomach problems.

"It was not easy, no," Marquinhos said (as per Goal). "Messi was having an inspired night, not only him but the whole Argentine team, they made a great game.

"It was very difficult, but I think the team managed to cancel out the attacks of Argentina well. The ones we could not had some lucky chances with balls hitting the post and Alisson made some great saves. That makes a strong and solid team.

"On the day of the game, I ended up suffering a virus, and I spent the day at the hotel. It was very complicated, I had diarrhea and was vomiting.

"I still managed to play, but with the effort, I put in it worsened and eventually I had to leave the game."

Despite his struggles, Marquinhos still managed to nullify the likes of Messi. The Barcelona icon managed four attempts, one of which hit the post, and created four opportunities but failed to find the back of the net.

Aguero and Martinez also failed to score past Alisson, with the Selecao marching to a 2-0 win. However, that game came at a cost for the PSG man as he was left in a worse condition after leaving the pitch.

He added: "After the game, it ended up getting worse too. I had a fever and I ended up having to go to the stadium infirmary, but I managed to get an injection and I feel better."

Nonetheless, the center-back is expected to be fit for Sunday's final. Tite's men will face surprise-package Peru with the sole aim of ending their wait for silverware on home soil.