Paulo Dybala claims that Di Maria dived in the WC Final

In a recent discussion, former Juventus striker Paulo Dybala has rekindled the conversation surrounding an event that took place during the 2022 FIFA World Cup final involving his Argentina teammate, Ángel Di María. Dybala proposed that Di María’s appeal for a penalty, which resulted in a crucial goal for Argentina in their match against France, may have been somewhat exaggerated.

In the documentary “Romper la Pared” (Break the Wall), which documents Di María’s career, Dybala expressed his opinion on the incident where Dembélé seemed to make contact with Di María in the penalty area. “To me, it was an astonishing dive, but he insists he was touched,” Dybala remarked. “I often joke with Fide (Di María). I tell him, ‘What a performer, you fell beautifully.’ Deception is part of the game.”

Dybala’s remarks have ignited a new wave of discussion and controversy across social media and among football enthusiasts globally. While some have commended Dybala for his candidness and humor, others have lambasted him for undermining Di María’s role in Argentina’s World Cup victory.

The Context of the Incident

The penalty incident being referenced occurred during the first half of the World Cup final. Di María was fouled inside the penalty area by Ousmane Dembélé, leading the referee to award a penalty kick. Di María took the penalty and successfully scored, giving Argentina a 1-0 advantage.

The decision to grant the penalty elicited mixed reactions, with some contending that the contact was too minimal to justify a penalty. Nevertheless, the VAR review validated the referee’s call, and Argentina ultimately triumphed in the match after penalties.

Diving and Simulation in Football

Dybala’s remarks have also highlighted the topic of diving and simulation in football. While some view these actions as an integral component of the game, others argue that they harm the sport and should face harsher penalties.

In recent years, the International Football Association Board (IFAB) has implemented various measures aimed at tackling the issue of simulation, including new regulations designed to deter players from pretending to be injured. However, diving continues to be a persistent challenge in football.

The Effects on Argentina and the Players Involved

Dybala’s comments have had a minimal effect on Argentina’s World Cup victory. The team’s success was a culmination of collective teamwork, and while the penalty was an important moment in the match, it was not the sole element that contributed to their win.

Regarding Di María and Dybala, their relationship seems to remain unaffected by Dybala’s statements. The two players are teammates at Juventus and share a strong relationship. It is probable that they have privately addressed the issue and moved past it.

Final Thoughts

Dybala’s statements regarding the penalty incident in the World Cup final have introduced an additional layer of complexity to one of the most memorable moments in modern football history. Although the discussion over the