The true meaning behind Lionel Messi wearing a black cloak to lift the World Cup makes it an incredibly powerful moment.
Argentina and France played out arguably the greatest World Cup final of all time as the match in Qatar’s Lusail Stadium was filled with dramatic twists and turns.
Messi and Angel di Maria had given the South American champions a 2-0 half-time lead as France looked way off their best.
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In the second half, chances fell to both sides but Kylian Mbappe managed to get his team back into the game after converting a penalty in the 80th minute. Just a minute later, the game was spun on its head as Mbappe spectacularly drew France level.
In extra time, Messi netted in the 108th minute but again was pegged back after Mbappe scored a late penalty to complete his hattrick, the Frenchman is the first player since Sir Geoff Hurst to score three goals in a World Cup final.
Messi though had the last laugh as Argentina beat France 4-2 in the penalty shootout.
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During the trophy presentation, the world was waiting in anticipation to see Messi lift the golden trophy aloft.
However, many fans felt the moment was slightly marred by Messi being made to put on a black cloak to lift the trophy.
But the true meaning behind the gesture meant it was in fact a very powerful moment.
According to content creator Tallie Dar, who wrote on Twitter: “Messi’s black cloak is called a 'Beshth'. Arabian warriors wore it after a victory.
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“It’s also worn by the royal family. King of Qatar honoured Messi as a sign of respect. Signifying Messi as a warrior who won for his country Argentina.”
Dar added: “Messi is being honoured as royalty in his Argentinian shirt, as the King of Football.
“It’s poetic. I don’t expect haters to understand because small minds will never get to king level.”
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At long last, after his heartbreak in the 2014 final, Messi is finally a World Cup winner.
Is Messi now officially the GOAT? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Lionel Messi, Argentina, Football World Cup, Football, Qatar
Marcus Chan