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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Nathan Ridley

Emiliano Martinez responds to penalty rule change after World Cup final antics

Emiliano Martinez insists that it'll be "no problem" if FIFA change the rules for goalkeepers during penalty shootouts after his much-maligned antics at the World Cup were labelled "despicable."

The Argentine shot-stopper, 30, saved a total of four penalties as his nation triumphed in Qatar but was criticised for attempting to put off his opponents with a series of unsportsmanlike tactics. FIFA are now reportedly set to change the laws for spot-kicks which would prevent goalkeepers from emulating Martinez, who was yellow carded for his behaviour during a tense penalty shootout as Argentina beat reigning champions France in December's final.

With a World Cup winner's medal in the bag, however, the Aston Villa star won't have an issue if FIFA take a stand, despite using a similar approach to help Argentina win the Copa America in July 2021. During an interview with ESPN, Martinez admitted: "I always said that after the Copa America, I don't know if I would do it again. I already saved the penalties that I had to save.

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