Lautaro Martínez 'likes' post criticizing Scaloni over World Cup final decision

Argentina's World Cup final performance has been overshadowed by a social media interaction involving striker Lautaro Martínez. The player "liked" an Instagram post from the Italian outlet Spazio Inter that criticized coach Lionel Scaloni's decision to keep him on the bench during Argentina's loss to Spain.

The post, referencing an editorial from Racing de Alma, labeled Martínez's absence from the match as "Scaloni's worst mistake." It emphasized the striker's crucial role in the team's previous comebacks and his proven ability to perform in decisive moments. This reaction gains significance given Martínez's own post-match comments, where he expressed pride in reaching a second consecutive final and gratitude to the fans, but also stated, "I would have liked to try to help the team on the field, but well..."

The Italian publication accompanied its post with images and text that further elaborated on the criticism. One section stated, "Lautaro Martínez on the bench: there is a storm in Argentina. Scaloni decided not to bring him in during the game and many, like in the Racing de Alma editorial, defined it as the coach's biggest mistake." Another image highlighted Martínez's status as the top scorer of the Scaloni era, excluding Messi, and his readiness in difficult matches, reiterating that his omission might have been the coach's "worst mistake" in an otherwise successful period.

Martínez remained an unused substitute for the entire 120 minutes of the final, which Argentina lost 1-0 in extra time, failing to defend their title. His absence raised questions, especially considering his impactful performances throughout the tournament. Notably, in the semifinal against England, he came off the bench and scored a late winner in stoppage time, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory and advancing Argentina to the final.

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I would have liked to try to help the team on the field, but well...