Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni left his post-match news conference in tears on Sunday night as he talked about his future, moments after his side’s World Cup final defeat to Spain. The emotional collapse came as goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez publicly hinted he may never play for his country again, writing on Instagram: “There are many things to reflect on and how to move forward, and if it’s time to step aside.”
Martinez, 33, was a colossus during Argentina’s triumph in Qatar four years ago, but could not repeat the heroics in New Jersey. Spain’s Ferran Torres eventually beat him in extra-time to deny the Albiceleste successive World Cup titles. Argentina had been under relentless pressure all game, failing to register a single effort on goal until the 116th minute, and were reduced to ten men when Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was shown a red card in the closing minutes of regulation time.
“Scaloni left press in tears; Martinez hints at retirement after World Cup final loss.”
“I dreamt we’d win it again, I dreamt of bringing it back to Argentina and making history once more,” Martinez wrote. “The truth is, the pain is hard to explain.” The Aston Villa goalkeeper, capped 67 times, added: “I’m so sorry, I truly tried my best to help my country and my team-mates.”
The aftermath of the game was marred by ugly scenes as Argentine frustration boiled over. Defender Nahuel Molina and midfielder Leandro Paredes both lashed out at opponents, drawing condemnation from BBC pundit Wayne Rooney. “Does it surprise you? It doesn’t surprise me,” Rooney said. “We’ve seen this with Argentina before. It’s just not the reaction you want. If you lose a game of football, be graceful and get out of there. It’s really poor from them.”
With Scaloni’s future uncertain and Martinez contemplating international retirement, Argentina’s golden generation faces an agonising crossroads.