2022 FIFA World Cup Final Referee admits to making a mistake
Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, who refereed the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and France, has admitted that he made mistakes in the World Cup final.
After Argentina’s victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, there has been a huge backlash among France fans against refereeing decisions. Marciniak, 41, said that while he didn’t make any ‘big mistakes’ in the game, there were some decisions he could have made differently.
Review
He said he interfered with a French counter-attack after a bad tackle by Argentina’s Macros Acuna.
Marciniak said the fouled player said he wanted to rest, but he misinterpreted that as saying nothing was wrong there.
He said that situation might have given him an advantage.
First Polish Referee Marciniak was the first Polish referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup final.
Marciniak replaced England referee Anthony Taylor after he was banned from refereeing the match due to allegations that he was acting on behalf of one side.
France fans signed the petition
Many football fans have praised Marciniak for his performance in such a big tournament.
But he is also facing heavy criticism from French fans. French fans and media criticized Messi for allowing Argentina’s extra-time goal in violation of FIFA rules when three extra players entered the field.
Also, French fans have signed a petition to have the final replayed.
However, Marciniak fought back against the claims. He showed a screenshot of seven French players standing on the pitch.
Szymon Marciniak, the referee for the World Cup Final, has responded to @lequipe’s criticism that Lionel Messi’s second goal shouldn’t have counted:
“The French didn’t mention this photo, where you can see how there are seven Frenchmen on the pitch when Mbappé scores a goal.” pic.twitter.com/MW6y73iiLN
— Zach Lowy (@ZachLowy) December 23, 2022
Marciniak’s refereeing was greatly appreciated. The minor mistake he discussed may not have affected the outcome of the match.
As there is not much evidence for the claim of the French players, it seems that their claim will not bear fruit.