Emiliano Martinez sparked outrage from Chile fans after he taunted them following Argentina’s late victory in their Copa America clash.
The world champions were up against their South American neighbours in their second Group A fixture of the tournament at the MetLife stadium, New Jersey, following a 2-0 win over Canada last week. And while it was a closer than expected fixture, Lautaro Martinez secured the win for Argentina with an 88th-minute tap-in at the back post after a corner.
While his team-mates celebrated on the other side of the pitch, Aston Villa keeper Martinez found himself alone with the thrill of the moment – turning towards the Chilean fans behind his goal and running towards them in celebration. Upon reaching the edge of the pitch, he jumped onto the advertising boards while gesturing towards the sea of red, reports the Mirror.
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Chile fans were not amused by Martinez’s antics, with many expressing their anger and showing him the middle finger. However, plenty of social media users enjoyed the spectacle.
One user commented: “He sure knows how to start a riot.” While another added: “No doubt the most entertaining gk in the world right now.”
A third remarked: “He enjoys the trolls.” And another said: “Always p****** off the opposition fans. Shameless man.” But some were not pleased with his actions, suggesting that his celebration could come back to bite him as the tournament continues.
Emiliano Martinez celebrating in front of Chile fans in the Copa America
(Image: X/@M10GOAT)One critic noted: “Emi was not the same person when he was at Arsenal. It’s true that he found success after leaving Arsenal, but he has become arrogant since then. Individuals like him usually don’t end up well. They should take a cue from Lionel Messi, who is a true gentleman.”
Another, meanwhile, reflected on potential future repercussions for Martinez as they wrote: “These might haunt him back when he face Uruguay/Colombia in later stage, hitherto, he hasn’t been much tested much.” He’s previously been scrutinised for his provocative celebrations – notably during the 2022 World Cup.
After receiving the Golden Glove award, he provocatively gestured with the trophy in response to jeers from French supporters at Lusail Stadium. His justification for the act was straightforward: “I did it because the French booed me. Pride does not work with me.”
Argentina’s 2022 World Cup journey began with a shock 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia but they bounced back to lead Group C, defeating Mexico and Poland both by 2-0 margins. They edged past Australia 2-1 in the round of 16, survived a nail-biting quarter-final against the Netherlands winning 4-3 on penalties, and cruised past Croatia with a 3-0 victory in the semi-finals.
The final against France was a rollercoaster, featuring goals from Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria, a Kylian Mbappe hat-trick, and ultimately being decided by penalties. Argentina emerged victorious with a 4-2 win in the penalty shootout, with Martinez denying Kingsley Coman from 12 yards and Aurelien Tchouameni missing his shot, leading to more mind games from the jubilant keeper. They’re now looking to defend their Copa America crown in the United States.
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