Claims that Lionel Messi’s extra-time goal ought to have been overturned have been refuted by World Cup final referee Szymon Marciniak.
After Kylian Mbappe’s second penalty of the game tied the score at 3-3 in the final seconds of extra time thanks to a Messi goal, Argentina won the shootout 4-2 to secure the victory.
After the game, French media alleged that Argentina’s third goal shouldn’t have stood because substitutes encroached on the field.
This claim has since been refuted, and Marciniak responded brilliantly when questioned.
“The French didn’t mention this photo, where you can see how there are seven Frenchmen on the pitch when Mbappe scores a goal,” while holding a picture of the encroachment to reporters.
Messi’s second and Argentina’s third should be settled by Marciniak’s remark. However, the French FA have since filed a complaint over Argentina’s celebrations back in Buenos Aires, where goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was seen holding a toy baby with Mbappe’s face attached.
This is not the only backlash to come after Sunday’s memorable World Cup final.
Marciniak should be able to take charge of significant games in Europe and beyond after a fair and impartial final.
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