The center referee for the game against Brazil and Argentina and his cohorts have now been suspended from football officiating.

This proved to be the case after they all failed to dish out punishment on Argentine center back, Nicholas Otamendi after he elbowed Brazilian winger Raphinha.

Highlights on the Raphinha incident

The elbow on Raphinha was so serious that the cameras pictured his mouth bleeding. Yet, there was no punishment meted out on Nicholas Otamendi. Hence, the suspension from the FA.

Raphinha received the elbow to his mouth during the first half of his country's World Cup qualifier game with Argentina.

Otamendi's reaction – Worthy of punishment

After Otamendi clearly elbowed the mouths of Raphinha, the Brazilian fell to the ground. However, instead of showing a remorseful or a sportsmanlike attitude, the Argentine defender did the exact opposite.

He immediately pulled the Brazilian winger up to his feet, as if painting the picture that Raphinha was framing the contact. Moreover, there was clearly blood gushing off Raphinha's mouths.

Raphinha receives medical treatment

After receiving the elbow from Otamemdi, Brazilian medical team revealed that Raphinha needed about 3 round stitched on his mouths to stop the bleeding.

With a proper consideration of these events, the South American FA have decided to take action on the referees on the night. But those manning the VAR and those on the field of play.

Summary

Without a doubt, the actions of Nicholas Otamendi was not one to have been thrown under the carpet.

It was obvious that the center-back deserved to be punished. However, since the officials refused to take actions, they may well be made to sacrifice their jobs for their indecisiveness.