Lautaro Martinez has expressed his frustration after being left on the bench for Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain, despite scoring the winning goal in the semi-final. The Inter Milan striker watched from the sidelines as Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in New Jersey on Sunday, with Ferran Torres netting the extra-time winner.
Martinez's Role in the Tournament
Martinez has scored 40 goals in 84 appearances for Argentina, including three in this World Cup. However, he did not get a chance to play in the final, even as Argentina failed to register a single shot on target in 120 minutes. Manager Lionel Scaloni's plans were disrupted by an Enzo Fernandez red card late in normal time and an injury to Lisandro Martinez in the first half.
Social Media Reaction
In an Instagram post, Martinez wrote: 'We gave it our all; for the second World Cup in a row, we reached the final, though this time it wasn't meant to be. I would have liked to try to help the team out on the pitch yesterday, but oh well.' His pointed 'oh well' made his feelings clear without directly criticizing his manager.
Scaloni's Future Uncertain
Scaloni, whose contract expires in December, hinted that he may step down after a successful tenure that includes a World Cup and two Copa America titles. 'I have an idea of what I want to do, I'll fulfill the contract and then I'll see,' he said. 'To continue, a lot of things are needed, especially to reset, to form a group like this again, which will hardly ever be formed again.'
