CHAIRMAN: DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: DR. KHALID MUBARAK AL-SHAFI

Sports / Football

'It's our destiny,' says Argentina goalkeeper Martinez

Published: 18 Dec 2022 - 09:49 pm | Last Updated: 18 Dec 2022 - 09:52 pm
Argentina's Emiliano Martinez after he is awarded the golden glove award during the trophy ceremony of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 at the Lusail Stadium, Lusail, Qatar, on December 18, 2022. REUTERS/Hannah Mckay

Argentina's Emiliano Martinez after he is awarded the golden glove award during the trophy ceremony of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 at the Lusail Stadium, Lusail, Qatar, on December 18, 2022. REUTERS/Hannah Mckay

Doha: Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez said it was "destiny" to win the World Cup after starring in the nail-biting penalty shootout victory over France in Sunday's final.

Martinez, 30, saved from Kingsley Coman in the shootout to help Argentina to a 4-2 win after the thrilling final ended 3-3 in extra-time.

"It was a very complicated match, they came back to equalise in the game but it was our destiny to suffer," said the Aston Villa keeper.

"All that I have dreamed of has been achieved. I have no words for it. I was calm during the penalty shoot-out, and everything went as we wanted.

"I left very young for England. I dedicate this victory to all my family."