Picture Credit: Twitter
Lionel Messi-led Argentina beat France in the FIFA World Cup 2022 Final to lift their third title and the first title in 36 years. Messi scored a brace while Angel Di Maria chipped in with a goal to keep Argentina alive in the contest. The Albicelestes then sealed the deal in the penalty shootout, pipping France 4-2.
It was a perfect end to the World Cup for Lionel Messi who has been a long servant of the nation. The 35-year-old scored in almost every game for his team and also provided the required support. In the summit clash, Messi opened the scoring as he easily converted a penalty from the spot. He then provided a brilliant assist to Di Maria for Argentina’s second goal.
While Argentina maintained the lead till the 80th minute, Kylian Mbappe did a terrific job to level the score. The match went into extra time and it was Messi once again with a goal in the 108th minute of the play. The Argentine captain scored on a rebound to bring Argentina back into the lead. While there were no questions raised about the legitimacy of the goal at that moment, fans have now started raising questions.
With several videos and pictures showing that two Argentine substitutes had already walked onto the field before Messi put the ball into France’s net, fans have claimed that the goal should have been disallowe d.
Check out the reactions here:
Notably, the official FIFA rules state: "If, after a goal is scored, the referee realises, before play restarts, that there was an extra person on the field of play when the goal was scored the referee must disallow the goal."
Meanwhile, French outlet L'Equipe has also written on the matter. “Except that the goal is invalid If we strictly apply the rules. When Messi volleys Hugo Lloris' save, some emotionally charged Argentine substitutes are already on the pitch, ready to celebrate. Which is strictly prohibited,” it read.
