Sports News of Monday, 19 December 2022

Source: www.brila.net

World Cup was rigged for Argentina - Aghahowa

Messi holds the World Cup Messi holds the World Cup

Former Super Eagles international, Julius Aghahowa believes Argentina were favored to win the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Aghahowa argued that Argentina’s first goal, after a penalty was awarded to the Albiceleste was too soft.

Ousmane Dembele was adjudged to have fouled Angel Di Maria in the box, although replay showed the contact was minimal.

Lionel Messi converted from the spot to put his side ahead.

Reacting to the incident, Aghahowa however insisted Di Maria was not touched at all in the build up to the penalty.

“He [Di Maria] wasn’t touched. The game has been given before it was played,” Aghahowa said during Brila FM’s coverage of the World Cup final.

“In such a game, shouldn’t it be checked by the VAR? This is clearly a demonstration that the World Cup was meant to be handed to Argentina and particularly, Lionel Messi. It’s unfortunate, it’s unfair.”

Di Maria made it 2-0 for the South Americans in the first half, but the game ended 2-2 in the regulation time with Kylian Mbappe scoring twice.

Messi restored Argentina’s lead in the extra time, only for Mbappe to respond with his third of the game.

Eventually, the game was decided on penalties and Argentina won 4-2 on penalties.