Argentina's FA president Claudio Tapia has spoken out against conspiracy theories sparked by Lionel Messi footage following the World Cup final defeat to Spain, labelling them as "lies". Spain beat the previous holders 1-0 last weekend, leading to controversy over what may have happened before the match.
Tapia's statement on social media
In a statement posted to social media, Tapia said supporters shouldn't be "fooled by lies" and "shouldn't be swayed by schemes that only seek to destabilise". He also subtly criticised the behaviour of some individuals following the defeat, before commending the nation's efforts.
His full statement read: "In sports, you also learn by accepting defeats with the same grace with which you celebrate victories. Yes, we lost a final. But it's also true that this group had just brought immense joy to the country. Argentina had celebrated a match earlier because this team once again demonstrated why it means so much to our people.
"Losing hurts. It hurts because we are competitive, because we are the most successful team in history, and because second place is never enough for us. It hurts because we are used to fighting until the end and because we continue to be one of the two best teams in the world.
Appeal for unity
"But let's stop for a moment. Let's think about the sacrifice of these players, the coaching staff, and every person who worked for more than 50 days away from their families, with a single objective: to represent Argentina in the best way possible. We are Argentinians.
"We compete with grit, with passion, and with heart. We give everything in every training session and every match. We also represent all of the Americas with enormous pride. We defend our colours, our flag and our country on every pitch in the world. That's why you shouldn't be swayed by lies or by schemes that only seek to destabilize. Enough of trying to turn against those who have given so much to our football.
"Today is a time to give thanks, to support, and to recognize these players who once again gave their all for the shirt. Schemes come and go. The commitment, the work, and the heart of our National Team remain forever. There are no excuses here."
Petition for replay
Despite Tapia's comments, Argentina supporters have launched a petition to have the World Cup final replayed.
