Social Media 'Theorist' Backs Van Gaal About Messi's 'Rigged' World Cup Win

• Lionel Messi led Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy in Qatar
• Louis van Gaal controversially alleged that games were orchestrated
• A viral post has laid out a conspiracy theory to back van Gaal's claim

A widely circulated post has presented a conspiracy theory backing former coach of the Netherlands, Louis van Gaal's claim that the 2022 World Cup was orchestrated to ensure Argentina's victory.

The former Dutch national manager stirred up controversy recently with surprising allegations casting a shadow over La Albiceleste's fairy tale journey from an opening loss to the world title in Qatar.

Messi inspired his South American nation to global football glory in the Middle East, defeating the reigning champions - France - in a nail-biting final at the Lusail Stadium on December 18.

The 36-year-old scored seven goals and provided three assists during the tournament, contributing significantly to his nation's capture of the prestigious trophy, per Sportskeeda.

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Following a defeat to Saudi Arabia in their first match at the Mundial, Messi led Argentina on a remarkable comeback to earn a knockout stage spot with victories against Poland and Mexico.

The South American powerhouse then triumphed over the resilient Australian team in the round of 16 before defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout in the quarter-finals.

Van Gaal, who coached Die Oranje in Qatar, had alleged that the matches were prearranged and orchestrated to allow Messi to complete a fairy tale in football.

Van Gaal told Nos, as quoted by Allsportztv and translated as follows: "If you see how Argentina gets the goals and how we get the goals and how some of Argentina's players crossed the line and weren't punished, then I think it's all preconceived game."

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This narrative has been so widely circulated that a thread on X (formerly Twitter) asserting the 2022 World Cup was 'fixed' has gained significant traction, amassing over 3,000 retweets and 5,000 'likes' as of the time of writing.

Shared by user @laligafrauds, who features Cristiano Ronaldo in their profile picture, aimed to support van Gaal's assertion by citing crucial quotes, scrutinising referee decisions, and highlighting the alleged 'home advantage'.

When Ibrahimovic implied World Cup was 'already written'

Sports Brief also reported on Swedish former striker, Zlatan Ibrahimovic once implying the 2022 FIFA World Cup had a bias in favour of Messi and Argentina.

The enigmatic footballer, who retired from the sport at the age of 41, suggested it seemed destined for Messi to secure victory with La Albiceleste in Qatar.