In a stunning revelation, former Netherlands coach Louis Van Gaal has accused FIFA of orchestrating the World Cup in Qatar to ensure Lionel Messi’s triumph with Argentina.
The 72-year-old football strategist, who resigned following the Netherlands’ World Cup exit, asserts that the tournament was manipulated to finally bestow the long-awaited victory upon Messi.
Messi’s monumental achievement in adding the World Cup trophy to his collection has placed him above other legendary players in the sport, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
While many believe Messi deserved the glory, Van Gaal is among those who question the fairness of his victory.
Specifically, Van Gaal points out that Argentina was not penalized for their transgressions during their quarter-final win over the Netherlands.
In what turned out to be a heated clash, Messi’s side emerged victorious with a 4-3 penalty shootout win after a goal each in regular time.
Reflecting on the World Cup in Qatar, Van Gaal expressed his concerns about Argentina’s conduct and the apparent lack of consequences for their actions.
He suggests that there was a premeditated plan at play, highlighting the disparity between the treatment of Argentina and the Netherlands.
When questioned further, Van Gaal firmly stands by his statements, affirming Messi’s deserving of becoming a world champion. This controversial revelation has sparked a vigorous debate among football enthusiasts worldwide.
🎙️ Louis van Gaal: “If you see how Argentina gets the goals and how we get the goals and how some of Argentina's players crossed the line and weren't punished, then I think it's all a premeditated game."
🗣️ Journalist: “What do you mean? That Messi should become world champion?”… pic.twitter.com/Ump1egp0D7
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) September 5, 2023
The unforgettable quarter-final encounter witnessed an astonishing total of 16 yellow cards, with Netherlands right-back Denzel Dumfries being sent off in extra time. Surprisingly, despite eight bookings, Argentina managed to avoid any red cards.
In December 2022, Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, expertly led Argentina to World Cup glory.
Scoring twice in the final, he played a pivotal role in securing a historic 4-2 penalty shootout victory over France at Lusail Stadium.
As discussions surrounding Van Gaal’s claims continue to intensify, FIFA and other relevant authorities face mounting pressure to address these allegations and ensure the transparency and integrity of future tournaments.