Argentina hero Lisandro Martinez struggled to keep his emotions in check after his country's famous win against the Netherlands in the World Cup quarter-final.
The Manchester United defender, 24, has played an important role in Argentina's run to the World Cup final. He's featured in all but one of their games so far and put in a mammoth display against the Dutch to help his country win a dramatic game on penalties.
Martinez spoke to the press after beating the Netherlands and was clearly emotional as he dedicated the win to his late grandparents. He was hugged by journalist Diego Korol as he broke down in tears - further endearing himself to the Argentinian public.
Footage of Martinez's interview with Korol belatedly emerged online after Argentina's semi-final win against Croatia. The defender struggled to say anything during the chat before declaring: "[This victory is] to my grandparents who are no longer here."
Martinez was then congratulated and hugged by Korol in a heart-warming moment. He also broke down in tears while speaking to another Argentinian broadcaster after the Netherlands win. His emotions were understandable, considering the game's drama.
Although Argentina eased to a 3-0 win against Croatia in the semi-finals, their quarter-final against the Netherlands was much more turbulent. Lionel Scaloni's side stormed into a two-goal lead before a late brace from Wout Weghorst sent the game into extra-time.
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Neither side could find a winner, as penalties were required to settle the tie. Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made two saves in the shootout to send Argentina through, while both sets of players clashed in fiery exchanges during and after the game.
Lisandro Martinez said: "It was just incredible. I just freed [when the final penalty was scored by Lautaro Martinez], because we didn’t deserve to end like that. We were much better than them. I want to hug everyone the players, the coaching staff... everyone!"
Martinez has spoken about his relationship with his late grandparents before. The former Ajax defender, who moved to Old Trafford in August, admitted chants of "Argentina" after United's 2-0 win against Tottenham in October almost brought him to tears.
"To be honest, it’s very emotional for me because I’m at one of the best clubs in the world," Martinez told MUTV. "This stadium, the atmosphere is amazing and when I heard the people say that, 'Argentina, Argentina', to be honest, I want to cry.
"I’ve had many moments in my head. My beginning was really hard but I think now of my mum, my father, my girlfriend, my sisters. And this result is also for my grandmother and grandfather, they are not with me now, but I always feel that love."
It's unclear whether Martinez will start the World Cup final against France on Sunday, as Argentina boss Scaloni often prefers to play former Manchester City defender Nicolas Otamendi and Tottenham star Cristian Romero at the heart of his defence.
