World Cup: ‘It’s unfair’ – Alan Shearer, Rooney claim Messi was robbed

Former England stars, Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney, have called on FIFA to reconsider their regulations on the third-place or bronze medal match.

This was after Kylian Mbappe was given the Golden Boot, beating Lionel Messi to secure the individual award. 

The French forward increased his tournament total to 10 goals by netting twice in Saturday’s 6-4 loss to England.

In contrast, Messi, in what may be his last World Cup appearance, failed to make an impact against the victorious Spain, whose formidable defense prevented Argentina from registering a single shot on target throughout the 120 minutes of play.

Consequently, the Argentine captain remained stranded on eight goals, two behind Mbappe. 

However, both former England captains expressed their belief that Messi had been treated unfairly, arguing that goals scored in the playoff match should not contribute to the overall tally.

Shearer said on BBC, “I was observing yesterday’s match, which resembled a testimonial in its nature.

“France has been eliminated, and Mbappe has scored his two goals. France is out.

“Lionel Messi is playing in a World Cup final against a Spain team that has conceded only one goal, which presents a significantly greater challenge.”

After witnessing a tearful Messi, who would have claimed the Golden Boot had he matched Mbappe’s goal tally due to his superior assists, receive his runners-up medal from Donald Trump, Rooney shared similar views.

“I believe that France’s elimination from the tournament and their participation in the third and fourth playoff match should not be counted,” Rooney stated.

“While they do count, I find it quite unjust to Messi.”

Following their 1-0 triumph in the final, Spain also secured all individual player awards.

World Cup: ‘It’s unfair’ – Alan Shearer, Rooney claim Messi was robbed