The startling realization that the late Argentina great Diego Maradona being unable to celebrate his country’s World Cup victory in Qatar left Lionel Scaloni feeling melancholy.
On penalties, Scaloni’s team defeated France 4-2 after a remarkable 3-3 stalemate in extra time on Sunday at Lusail Stadium.
It was Lionel Messi’s first World Cup victory and Argentina’s first championship since Maradona led them to victory in 1986.
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Maradona, who represented his country from 1977 to 1994, passed away in November 2020 at the age of 60 following a heart arrest.
His death was followed by three days of national mourning, putting into context just how significant a figure he was in Argentina.
And for Scaloni on Sunday, being reminded of Maradona’s passing was difficult.
Asked what he would say to Maradona if he had been present, Scaloni told reporters: “Well, you make me realise that he’s not here, otherwise you’d think he was amongst us.
“Well fortunately we managed to lift this trophy, something we’ve been dreaming of for so long, we’re such a football passionate country.
“I hope he enjoyed it from above. I’m sure if he was here he’d have enjoyed it so much, he’d have been the first one on the pitch.
“Now you ask me this you make me realise he’s not here. I wish he was here to enjoy this moment.”
