Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has hinted at international retirement following Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain. The 33-year-old wrote on Instagram that he must reflect on whether it is now "time to step aside."
Martinez's Emotional Message
Martinez, who has earned 67 caps for Argentina, was a key figure in their 2022 World Cup win in Qatar, starring in a penalty shootout victory over France. In Sunday's final in New Jersey, he kept Spain at bay until extra time, when Ferran Torres scored the winner to dash Argentina's hopes of retaining their crown.
"I dreamt we'd win it again, I dreamt of bringing it back to Argentina and making history once more," Martinez wrote in an Instagram post. "The truth is, the pain is hard to explain. There are many things to reflect on and how to move forward, and if it's time to step aside. I'm so sorry, I truly tried my best to help my country and my team-mates."
Argentina's Frustrations Boil Over
Argentina's challenge was made more difficult when Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a red card in the closing moments of normal time. They eventually fell to Spanish pressure during extra time, having failed to muster a single shot until the 116th minute, with no shots on target in the entire match.
The conclusion was overshadowed by unsavoury scenes as Argentine frustrations erupted, with Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes both striking out at opposition players. Their conduct was criticised by Wayne Rooney, who suggested their behaviour came as little shock given earlier matches. The BBC pundit said: "Does it surprise you? It doesn't surprise me. We've seen this with Argentina before. It's just not the reaction you want. We've seen some of the reaction after knocking England out in the last round. That's just sad. If you lose a game of football, be graceful and get out of there. It's really poor from them."
