International

Argentine World Cup winner explains why he celebrated Messi's goal in Mbappe's face

Nearly a month later, the World Cup winners continue to reflect on their success at Qatar 2022. Recently, an Argentine star revealed why he celebrated Lionel Messi's goal in Kylian Mbappe's face.

Kylian Mbappe against Cristian Romero.
© Catherine Ivill/Getty ImagesKylian Mbappe against Cristian Romero.

Argentina‘s run at Qatar 2022 may have not started according to plan, but the ending was just howthey’ve imagined it. Even if they had to sweat more than expected, Lionel Messi and company got the job done and brought home the FIFA World Cup trophy.

Advertisement

Truth is La Albiceleste had to overcome serious challenges along the way, including a hard-foughtquarterfinal against the Netherlands. The final vs. France was not as heated as that game, but it was still dramatic.

With the stakes being so high, there was tension between both sides. In the end, it was Argentina who got to celebrate, not without mocking French star Kylian Mbappe. Nearly a month later, Cristian Romero revealed why he rubbed Messi’s extra time goal on his face.

Advertisement

Cuti Romero reveals why he celebrated in Kylian Mbappe’s face

When it looked like France were coming back from a two-goal deficit,Messi restored the lead for Argentina in overtime. In that moment, Cuti Romero went directly towardsMbappe after he allegedly disrespected one of his teammates.

“I yelledthe goal in Mbappe’s face because Enzo [Fernandez] had talked to him and Mbappe treated him very badly,” Romero toldArgentine radio station DSports. “So my reaction was to celebrate Leo’s goal in his face.”

Advertisement

Mbappe would tie the game shortly after, forcing the penalty shootout. He even scored his spot-kick, but it was still not enough as Kingsley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni missed, while Argentina scored all their shots. Mbappe was later targetedby the Argentines, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez leading the mockery.

ALSO READ
Where to watch France vs Ukraine live in the USA: UEFA World Cup Qualifiers
Soccer

Where to watch France vs Ukraine live in the USA: UEFA World Cup Qualifiers

Why is Ousmane Dembele not playing today for France vs Ukraine in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?
Soccer

Why is Ousmane Dembele not playing today for France vs Ukraine in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?

Colombia secure third place at FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 after 1-0 win over France: Goal and highlights
Soccer

Colombia secure third place at FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 after 1-0 win over France: Goal and highlights

What happens if Colombia and France tie in the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 third-place game today?
Soccer

What happens if Colombia and France tie in the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 third-place game today?

Better Collective Logo