One of the highlights of Argentina, three-time world champion in the Qatar Cup, Emiliano Martínez, 30, attracted attention when he received, at the Lusail stadium, the Golden Glove award, given to the best goalkeeper of the tournament.
Martínez placed the trophy below his abdomen and displayed it, in an obscene attitude, towards the fans, causing astonishment, some disgust, and generating questions.
Doubts about the reason for the number 23 shirt, who took penalties in disputes against the Netherlands, in the quarterfinals, and France, in the final, did not persist for long, since he gave the explanation to La Red radio, in his country.
“I did that because the French booed me. I don’t take shit home,” he said, implying that the inelegant gesture was a response to France fans in the arena that was the stage of the Qatar World Cup final.
Quite passionate, the number 23 showed great vibrancy during the matches, especially when he saved penalties against the Dutch and French – and even did a little dance when he avoided a goal by Berghuis and after Tchouaméni kicked it out.
In addition to shining as a penalty taker, he was decisive in preventing France’s second championship, and allowing Argentina to continue in the fight for the third, when, at the end of the second half of extra time, he deflected a strong kick from Kolo Muani with the right address. .
After winning and celebrating with the national team in Argentina, Martínez will return to England, where he plays for Aston Villa. The Premier League will resume on Monday (26), after the break for the World Cup.
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