Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez was left in tears after Argentina’s incredible victory against Croatia in the semi-final.
The result saw the Albiceleste advance to the final where they will face France on Sunday.
In the final, Martínez will face his central partner and close friend Raphael Varane in what is sure to be an interesting draw.
Argentina won 3-0 thanks to a Lionel Messi penalty and a brace from Manchester City striker Julián Álvarez.
Martinez did not start the game, with Lionel Scaloni opting to resort to a back four defensive line.
The United man came on early in the second half and was instrumental in helping the South American team bolster their defense to keep out Croatia, who asked them some questions.
The 24-year-old was emotional and left in tears, just as he was when Argentina narrowly won in the quarterfinal against the Netherlands.
Martínez spoke to the press and expressed his delight at Argentina’s wonderful achievement, as well as his own contribution to the feat.
He said: “I have a million things on my head right now.”
“I am thankful for life.”
The central defender added: “I am grateful for my grandparents who are no longer here.”
Lisandro Martínez excited at #Qatar2022: “I have a million things on my mind right now. I am grateful for life, grateful for my grandparents who are no longer here…” [@DSportsRadio] pic.twitter.com/dqjVlvDF85
— utdreport (@utdreport) December 15, 2022
Based on the evidence of his displays every time he’s on the pitch, Martinez has a strong case to start against France on Sunday. If Scaloni deploys a defense of four or five, it could be the main deciding factor that determines whether he starts.
In a five-back setup, which Scaloni could use to neutralize France’s potent attack, Martinez is more or less guaranteed to start.
