Rodrigo De Paul, a central figure in Argentina’s national football team, addressed criticism and speculation surrounding the team’s campaign in an Instagram post. The scrutiny included conspiracy theories and debate about Argentina’s playing style. The final at Lusail Stadium in Qatar on 18 December 2022 ended 3-3 after extra time, with Argentina beating France 4-2 on penalties to win the World Cup.
The match swung dramatically: Argentina led 2-0 after goals from Lionel Messi and Ángel Di María, before Kylian Mbappé scored twice in quick succession to level the game. Messi scored again in extra time, Mbappé completed his hat-trick, and the score remained 3-3 through 120 minutes. Mbappé finished the tournament with eight goals, ahead of Messi’s seven.
De Paul started the final after returning to Argentina’s lineup for the decisive match. He had been a regular in Lionel Scaloni’s midfield, where his responsibilities included progressing the ball and providing defensive support. Before Argentina’s quarter-final against the Netherlands, an AFP lineup report said De Paul was fit to start despite reported hamstring concerns.
In the Instagram post, De Paul acknowledged the emotions surrounding the tournament and emphasized the bond between the team and its supporters. He presented criticism and rumors as forces that strengthened the squad’s unity, and expressed pride in representing Argentina. The final’s outcome was decided through extra time and a penalty shootout; claims that the tournament was manipulated were not established by an official finding.
The final and the surrounding debate drew global attention, including public interest in the Spanish Royal Family’s appearance at the event. Related coverage included coverage of the TVE broadcast interruption during the Spain-Argentina match.
De Paul has been a central figure in Argentina’s recent football successes, including the 2022 World Cup title. The post-final discussion also reflected the scrutiny faced by high-profile players and the way public narratives can shape debate around national teams.
