Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria have been the protagonists for Argentina in Lusail with a goal each for the veteran pair in the opening 45 minutes.
However, the early stages featured a major moment of controversy, as Di Maria went down under a challenge from Ousmane Dembele inside the French penalty area.
Polish referee Syzmon Marciniak immediately pointed to the spot, and Messi slotted home a fourth penalty of Qatar 2022, but the debate has raged over whether it was the correct call.
MORE: World Cup final: Argentina vs France live score, highlights, result as Messi strikes first from penalty spot
Why did Marciniak award a penalty?
Marciniak awarded the spot kick as Dembele appeared to catch Di Maria’s trailing leg as he skipped past his initial challenge into the penalty box.
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However, replays have proved to be very inconclusive, with contact from the Dembele appearing to be minimal, as Di Maria took a tumble.
Was Argentina penalty the correct decision?
Social media has exploded with debate over the decision, as Dembele protested his innocence, and Di Maria’s experience saw him receive a friendly decision.
