“It should affect the game,” 2022 FIFA World Cup final referee responds to France’s accusations of favoring Argentina
World Cup final referee Szymon Marciniak has faced criticism by France for his last match officiating in 2022 FIFA World Cup final.
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Referee Szymon Marciniak has responded against French claims of favoritism and that he should have overturned Argentina’s third World Cup final goal. The Polish official received high appreciation for his work during football’s biggest final game, in which Argentina defeated France on penalties following a thrilling 3-3 draw in Qatar to win their third world title.
Lionel Messi (2) and Angel Di Maria scored for the Albiceleste, while Kylian Mbappe scored a stunning hat-trick for Les Bleus, with spot-kicks proving decisive. Marciniak’s performance has, however, come under much scrutiny in the subsequent days, particularly from the French side of the supporters. Indeed, a petition to have the game replayed owing to alleged “mistakes” has received more than 200,000 signatures from French supporters.
The most noteworthy of them is that Messi’s second goal of the game which made it 3-2 to the eventual winners in extra time. It should have been ruled off due to the presence of two substitutes on the field of play at the time the Argentina captain hooked the ball over the goal line, according to match footage. With a story titled “Why Argentina’s Third Goal Shouldn’t Have Been Awarded,” L’Equipe fueled the fires.
Referee hits back over claims of bias in Argentina vs France 2022 FIFA World Cup final
However, Marciniak responded to their remarks in a press conference after being welcomed back to Poland. He said while removing his phone from his pocket: “The French didn’t mention this photo, where you can see how there are seven Frenchmen on the pitch when Mbappe scores a goal.” The event in the image he seemed to be displaying was when Mbappe scored from the penalty spot to tie the score 3-3 late in extra time.
“First of all, to penalise this situation it should affect the game. What was the impact of the boys who got up and jumped onto the field?” In fact, the Polish official insisted L’Equipe’s critique was irrelevant, saying: “Friends, great referees from France, wrote to me.”
“The reception was great. Many professionals and footballers sent us congratulations and Kylian Mbappé said that we were great referees. What the players say matters. The French thanked us after the match, they were satisfied with the refereeing.” he added.
Also Read- Nearly 200,000 fans sign a petition demanding a rematch of 2022 FIFA World Cup final
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Sujeeth Shetty
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