Former Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal has made sensational claims about the 2022 World Cup, suggesting that the tournament was rigged in favor of Lionel Messi and the eventual champions, Argentina.
This shocking assertion has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, raising questions about the integrity of one of the most prestigious sporting events on the planet.
Argentina’s victory in the 2022 World Cup was a historic moment, marking their first global triumph in decades and fulfilling Messi’s dream of winning a World Cup with his national team. The Albiceleste’s journey to glory was not without challenges, including a surprising defeat to Saudi Arabia in their opening match. However, they rallied and ultimately clinched the title.
Van Gaal, who was at the helm of the Netherlands during the tournament, has pointed fingers at the legitimacy of Argentina’s victory. The Dutch team faced Argentina in the quarter-finals, a match remembered for its intensity, resulting in 16 yellow cards and one red card before being decided in a penalty shootout.
Van Gaal, in an interview with NOS, expressed his doubts: “I don’t really want to say much about it. When you see how Argentina gets the goals and how we get the goals, and how some Argentina players overstepped the mark and were not punished, then I think it was a premeditated game.”
Pressed to clarify his comments, the former Barcelona and Manchester United manager stood by his words, stating, “I mean everything I say. That Messi should become world champion? I think so, yes.”
Lionel Messi’s role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory cannot be understated. He delivered a series of inspirational performances, ultimately earning the Golden Ball award for his outstanding contributions.
The final against France, which also went to a dramatic penalty shootout, showcased Messi’s brilliance on the grand stage. With his performances for Argentina and his continued success with MLS side Inter Miami, Messi is widely considered the frontrunner for the 2023 Ballon d’Or, which would be his eighth, solidifying his status as one of the greatest footballers in history.
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