Lionel Messi Jerseys to Test Paraguay's Away Shirt Ban

South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) Rules Prohibit Teams From Wearing White Kits Away

Lionel Messi's iconic blue and white striped jersey is set to test the limits of Paraguay's away shirt ban when Argentina faces off against their rivals in a crucial World Cup qualifier on Thursday.

CONMEBOL, the governing body for South American football, has a long-standing rule that prohibits teams from wearing white kits away from home. The rule is intended to prevent clashes with the home team's kit, which is typically white.

Argentina's Traditional Home Kit Features White Stripes

Argentina's traditional home kit features blue and white vertical stripes, with white shorts and socks. This kit has been worn by the team for decades and is considered one of the most iconic jerseys in world football.

However, the white stripes on Argentina's kit could potentially violate CONMEBOL's away kit ban. Paraguay's home kit is also white, so there is a risk that the two teams' kits could clash.

Paraguay's Ban on White Away Shirts Has Been Controversial

Paraguay's ban on white away shirts has been controversial since it was introduced in 2017. Many teams have complained that the ban is unfair, as it forces them to wear unfamiliar and uncomfortable kits away from home.

In 2019, CONMEBOL relaxed the ban slightly, allowing teams to wear white shorts and socks away from home. However, the ban on white shirts remains in place.

Argentina May Request an Exemption From the Ban

Argentina is likely to request an exemption from the ban for the match against Paraguay. The team has a long history of wearing its traditional home kit, and it would be a major disappointment for fans if they were forced to wear a different kit.

CONMEBOL has the authority to grant exemptions to the ban on a case-by-case basis. It is possible that the governing body will grant Argentina an exemption for the match against Paraguay, given the team's history and the importance of the match.

Conclusion

The match between Argentina and Paraguay is set to be a fascinating test of CONMEBOL's away shirt ban. Argentina will be hoping to secure a victory and boost their chances of qualifying for the World Cup, while Paraguay will be looking to defend their home turf and maintain their unbeaten record in the qualifiers.

The outcome of the match could have implications for the future of the away shirt ban. If Argentina is granted an exemption, it could set a precedent for other teams to request exemptions in the future.