The World Cup is a gift to the people of Argentina amid severe economic conditions

Argentine players dedicated the FIFA World Cup title, the first for the South American country in 36 years, to their people in light of their suffering from difficult economic conditions.

Argentina crowned its third World Cup title by winning a penalty shootout 4-2 over France in the final in Qatar, after an exciting 3-3 draw after extra time.

The achievement will alleviate the suffering of the Argentine people, after inflation jumped to nearly 100 percent on an annual basis, and there were popular protests months ago to demand higher wages in light of a significant increase in prices and the weakness of the local currency (peso).

"I dedicate this title to all Argentines and my family," said Emiliano Martinez, the Argentine goalkeeper, who played a pivotal role in winning the title, absent since 1986, after saving a penalty kick.

He continued, "I dreamed of this all my life. I came out of a humble neighborhood and traveled as a young man to England. This title is for my family and children."

Aston Villa goalkeeper Martinez gestured to the fans at Lusail Stadium with his hand after being awarded the Golden Glove for best goalkeeper.

Gabriel Batistuta, the second best scorer in Argentine history after Lionel Messi, said, "The Argentine people deserve this happiness after suffering daily. He needed this joy to temporarily escape from life crises."

"Football players usually succeed in making people happy, everyone will celebrate until late hours," he added, while analyzing the final match on BN Sports, after he fought back tears.

“The players were criticized especially at the beginning of the tournament, but they won in the end and made the people happy after losing many finals.

"This is a victory for South America after many years without being crowned."

Striker Lautaro Martinez said, "I thank the Argentine people and everyone who traveled to encourage us. I dedicate the title to my family in the stands and to my mother who watched the match from home with her heart. She is not in the best condition, and I hope that this title gives her strength."

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