“Let’s forget about everything. Let’s just play. Let’s just think about playing, people”
With these words, Leo Messi attempted to boost his teammates’ morale before taking the Met Life Stadium field on July 19. The scene captured Enzo Fernández in tears and Lisandro Martínez visibly emotional. The video cuts off.
This video emerged following Spain’s victory against Argentina, sparking questions about the authenticity of the match and the circumstances surrounding it. Many began to suspect that the World Cup final might have been rigged; however, the reasons remain elusive.
Accusations of a rigged final gained momentum after Argentina’s defeat, igniting chaos among fans, YouTubers, and some media outlets.
“There is no doubt, they gave him the order to lose.”
“There is no doubt that the Argentine National Team was given the order that it had to lose. As a psychologist, I am trained to observe the unspoken. During the game, I noticed unusual occurrences. They treated us like fools, staging a show.”
These sentiments were echoed by an Argentine fan and psychologist who expressed confusion over the match strategies and injuries that plagued the team.
Click on the image to view the original tweet
This fan suggested that FIFA aimed to crown a 19-year-old champion (Lamine Yamal), as it would be more marketable than an Argentine victory with an aging Messi.
Ironically, some also argued that Argentina’s loss was scripted due to Messi’s final World Cup, presenting a compelling narrative for a historically individualistic and commercial event.
Calmly, another fan said, “I have no proof, but I am certain they sent us to lose in the final.” This sentiment tied back to the infamous Italy ’90 experience, where Argentina lost to West Germany.
Diego Maradona had previously claimed that Grondona, the then-president of the AFA, informed the team they had no chance of victory due to the Mexican referee officiating the match. “We were dedicated,” Maradona recounted in an interview.
These comparisons have grown, connecting the dots between both matches: Argentina facing a European side after winning previously, with Messi believed to be ending his international career.
As whispers of match-fixing amplified, one fan lamented:
“Everything predicted on the cover of The Economist came true. We live in a simulation, and everything is orchestrated. Maybe they hold the keys to time travel; they manipulate global consciousness for their outcomes…”
Another fan suggested we accept our reality, claiming there’s more script to this than meets the eye. He offered a video furthering this idea.
Click on the image to view the original tweet
As for another theory, one fan indicated that players felt pressured, claiming that snipers were present. This theory also suggested a collaboration among powerful figures in football and politics.
“They robbed us again… We were manipulated, the narrative was set. Why wasn’t Lautaro Martínez, who famously faced the English during his careers, allowed to play? No one will ever reveal the hidden truths of football.”
Click on the image to view the original tweet
The discourse that has captured attention suggests the referee’s European connection may have tipped the scales against Argentina. Controversial decisions arose during the match, with earlier rumors circulating about who would officiate.
In another discussion, journalist Eduardo Feinmann dismissed the notion that Argentina sold the final for legal favors, noting ongoing investigations involving the AFA.
Click on the image to view the original tweet
And an unexpected boycott
The ongoing tension following the match has led to calls for boycotting Rosalía’s concerts beginning August 1. She’s faced backlash, particularly on streaming platforms.
Her criticism stems from a post she shared by Mia Khalifa, where the actress, known for her defense of Palestine, read aloud, “what life sounds like now that ‘the pearls’ have been defeated,” evoking Spanish flags.
Khalifa has been vocal about her political stance, losing opportunities due to clashes over her views. Her advocacy for Palestine has often sparked controversy.
This incident connected to the parallel final played by Palestine and Israel, adds an unexpected layer to the aftermath of the World Cup. Argentina, which has a significant Jewish population, finds itself at a political crossroads following recent statements from President Javier Milei regarding the conflict.
In this turbulent narrative, social media became a battleground, with discussions erupting on national loyalties as both sides sought support.
Overall, the ongoing discourse surrounding the World Cup echoes deep-rooted sentiments of national pride, conspiracy theories, and evolving political stances.