“They were totally , that is the reality” – Ex-Uruguay international claims FIFA helped Lionel Messi and Argentina win 2022 FIFA World Cup

Former Uruguayan defender Diego Lugano recently questioned the legitimacy behind Lionel Messi-led Argentina winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Paris Saint-Germain forward took home the Golden Ball by scoring seven goals and providing three assists.

Argentina, meanwhile,, were awarded five penalties during the tournament, four of which Messi converted. Lugano believes that the South American giants were helped by FIFA due to their captain’s global popularity.

Speaking to Futnbl por Carve TiaDiaria, Lugano said:

“That they gave him help is that there is no doubt. Argentina had its merit, but of the 5 penalties, 4 I think no one has any doubt that they were not. They were totally forced, that is the reality. But that is to the credit of Messi, who moves a lot worldwide.”