“I did it because…”: Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez explains the reason behind his lewd gesture

Golden Glove winner and the best goalkeeper of the tournament Emiliano Martinez made lewd gesture with the award in front of Qatar officials.

After the scores were tied 3-3 in extra time, Argentina defeated France 4-2 on penalties, giving Lionel Messi his first FIFA World Cup victory and a stunning victory to his international football career. Messi scored two goals and Kylian Mbappe three for France. Argentina only had one additional scorer, Angel di Maria.

Emiliano Martinez, a super-stopper, was named the competition’s top goalkeeper. Martinez, the star goalkeeper for Aston Villa, made seven appearances for Argentina at the FIFA World Cup and recorded three clean sheets. In World Cup shootouts, the Argentina goalkeeper also turned aside three penalties, including one in the championship. For his outstanding performance in this year’s competition, the goalkeeper also received the Adidas Golden Glove award.

The trophy, a huge gold hand, was placed to the former Arsenal player’s groin before he emphatically raised it above his head during the post-match celebrations, which caused Qatari officials to raise an eyebrow.

Martinez explained his action to La Red (an Argentine media outlet), saying that the French were booing him. “I did it because the French were booing me, pride doesn’t go with me”, he said.

“I dedicate the title to my family. I come from a very humble place. I went to England very young. I want to dedicate it to them”, he further added.