World Cup final referee Szymon Marciniak has hit back at claims that Lionel Messi's extra-time goal against France should have been disallowed with a brilliant response.
Despite his impressive performance in the final, a number of Marciniak's calls have come under scrutiny by the French media after Argentina lifted the World Cup trophy last week. Les Blues were denied the opportunity to retain their crown in Qatar despite Kylian Mbappe's remarkable hat trick.
After bringing the game back to level terms in dramatic fashion, France found themselves 3-2 behind in extra time when Messi converted Lautaro Martinez's effort over the line from close range. However, following the final, reports in France began to criticise Marciniak's decision to allow the goal to stand after footage showed the Argentina substitutes on the field when the goal was scored.
