Argentina president Javier Milei has issued a staunch defence of his country.
Javier Milei has defended Argentina in a series of scathing Instagram posts (Image: Getty)
Argentina president Javier Milei has slammed his country’s ‘jealous’ critics after the shameful scenes that unfolded at the World Cup. The runners-up have sparked plenty of anger in recent weeks, drawing criticism for their aggressive playing style and repeated antics during the tournament. After beating England in the semi-finals, a number of their players held up a political banner referencing the Falkland Islands, which caused no shortage of controversy.
Immedlately after the World Cup final, they were involved in further drama as Leandro Paredes attacked several Spain players as they celebrated their victory. The vast majority of the Argentina squad also turned their backs as La Roja lifted the iconic golden trophy.
Their defeat followed conspiracy theories that the World Cup was ‘fixed’ in Argentina’s favour, something that has been strenuously denied by FIFA.
The ill-feeling was so intense that over 23 million people signed a petition to ban the four-time champions from the World Cup.
Milei has finally responded to the growing criticism of his country on social media, defending the national team in a series of Instagram posts.
One post read: “Do you have enemies? It means you once defended something. We defend Argentina.”
Another said: “The problem with Argentina is that we stand out. We don’t go unnoticed, people are jealous of us, and we’re good at almost everything.”
It comes after Paredes admitted that Spain deserved their victory and brushed off any conspiracy theories surrounding Argentina.
“Spain were better than us in the final, and they deserve to win the World Cup,” said the midfielder, who is yet to apologise for his disgraceful conduct after the full-time whistle.
“We pay no attention to these theories. If I were to believe everything I hear, I would lose my mind. A lot was said before, during and after the World Cup.”
Reflecting on Argentina’s run to the final, Paredes said that the team put on a wonderful tournament and noted their achievements over the last few years, including two Copa America titles and the World Cup trophy in 2022.
He described it as an “exceptional journey”, adding: “Perhaps we will realise the greatness of what we have accomplished as time passes, because it is something unbelievable.”