‘I’m probably going to be banned for it’ – Former Arsenal star Wojciech Szczesny confirms €100 penalty bet with Lionel Messi in Argentina’s win over Poland at Qatar World Cup
Wojciech Szczesny has revealed that he made a €100 bet with Lionel Messi during Poland's clash with Argentina - and lost.
The Juventus goalkeeper endured a dramatic night at the World Cup as his nation edged through to the last-16 of the competition on goal difference after a 2-0 loss to the South Americans.
A huge moment in the match came when Szczesny caught Messi in the box when coming to claim a cross.
The referee was told by the video assistant referee to take a closer look at the incident.
Clearly confident that the spot-kick wouldn't be awarded, the former Arsenal shot-stopper revealed post-match how he made a small wager with the Argentine superstar.
Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster , he said: "No I didn't [think the penalty would be given].
"We spoke before the penalty and I told him I can bet him €100 that he wasn't going to give it.
"So I've lost a bet against Messi.
"I don't know if that's allowed at the World Cup. I'm probably going to be banned for it. I don't care right now.
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"I'm not going to pay him either. He doesn't care about €100, come on."
Of course the penalty was given, however Szczesny made up for the foul by saving Messi's kick, keeping the score at 0-0.
However goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez were enough to earn victory for Argentina as they progressed to the next round as Group C winners, with Poland squeezing through in second.
They will now face France in the Round of 16 - live on talkSPORT.
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