Martinez explains why he made lewd gesture when picking up Golden Glove award

The 30-year-old goalkeeper was one of the stars of the final, denying France's Randal Kolo Muani right at the death in extra-time, to ensure Lionel Messi finally got his hands on the World Cup.

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He then saved from Kingsley Coman in the penalty shootout to ensure his nation secured a third World Cup triumph with Argentina winning 4-2 on penalties after a 3-3 draw.

After keeping three clean sheets in Qatar, he was given the award for the best goalkeeper at the tournament.

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However, he was spotted making a rude gesture with his prize, as he held it over his private parts.

The Argentinian shot-stopper, though, has since revealed he did so due to the fact France fans were booing him all game.

"I did it because the French booed me. Pride does not work with me," he told Argentine radio station La Red.

Martinez came into his own during the penalty shootout, and made gestures to the crowd to make more noise after saving Coman's spot-kick.

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The Aston Villa goalkeeper did admit that France pushed his side all the way, as they kept coming back into the match.

"We suffered a lot. We thought we were in control but they managed to come back,' he added.

"It was a very complicated game. Our destiny was to suffer.

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"They had one last chance to win [Kolo Muani's late shot]. Luckily I was able to stop it with my foot.

"This is a moment I've always dreamed of living, I have no words for it. I left very young for England and I would like to dedicate this victory to my family."