The World Cup came to a dramatic close on Sunday (December 18), as Argentina beat France in a thrilling tie to become world champions for the first time in more than 30 years. After a glittering career, Lionel Messi finally achieved his dream of lifting the world cup after scoring twice as his side beat the reigning champions 4-2 on penalties.
It was believed to be the PSG forward’s last attempt at winning the tournament that has escaped his grasp several times over the years before he retires from international football. He has since vowed to continue his Argentina career as the temptation to “experience a few more games as a world champion” is simply too great.
It was clearly an emotional night for the captain and his teammates, with Messi falling to his knees as Gonzalo Montiel’s penalty secured the win for the South American side. Following the post-match award ceremony – which saw Messi lift the trophy in iconic scenes that will be no doubt replayed for generations – the Argentine entourage flooded the pitch to revel in their post-match celebrations.
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The players and coaching staff were joined by many friends and family members, including former Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero. But one face seen joining in with the celebrations caused confusion among fans, as social media star and butcher Salt Bae was also on the pitch.
The Turkish chef – real name Nusret Gökçe – could be seen mingling on the crowded turf and posing for several photos, including with players including former Manchester United winger Angel Di Maria. In footage posted on social media after the game, Salt Bae could also be seen attempting to grab Messi, but the Argentina captain appears to ignore him and continue hugging his teammates and family members.
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Eventually, the social media star got his wish and posed for a photo with the World Cup winner, even getting his hands on the World Cup trophy, at the anger of many fans. Slamming him on Twitter, @LeeNoble20 said: “Why am I seeing Salt Bae with the World Cup trophy in his hands?"
WHY IS SALT BAE HOLDING THE WORLD CUP pic.twitter.com/uNroTg2cYU
— Furtado (@Paul_Furtado1)
@EriksButcher added: “I really want to know why Salt Bae still gets everywhere. He had a viral video and meme in 2017 and in 2022 he’s holding a World Cup and begging for photos. Who is still thinking we wanna see this guy at events??”
@jack_brannigan1 said: “Why was salt bae on the pitch last night acting like he won the World Cup.”
Paul_Furtado1 fumed: “WHY IS SALT BAE HOLDING THE WORLD CUP.”
Sports journalist André Noruega shared a screenshot on Twitter showing FIFA’s official rules surrounding the trophy, which make clear it “can only be touched and held by a very select group of people, which includes former winners of the FIFA World Cup and heads of state.”
“Uhm, okay then. Saltbae is either a World Cup winner or head of state, then,” he wrote alongside the image.
According to Eurosport, the World Cup trophy is made of 6.175kg gold – or 30,875 Carats of 18 karat (75 percent) – and has been valued at $20 million (£16.4 million).
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