LIONEL MESSI was seen embracing a crying woman in emotional scenes after Argentina’s World Cup triumph.
The mystery hugger has been revealed as much-loved Argentina chef, Antonia Farias, according to Argentinian reports.
Argentinian newspaper Clarin say Messi, 35, was celebrating with Antonia, a long-time employee of the national team.
Footage emerged of him tightly hugging the emotional Antonia following Sunday’s penalty shootout win over France.
She sported an Argentina shirt as she ran up to the Argentina captain on the pitch and wrapped her arms around his back.
Messi’s face lit up as he recognised who it was in front of him.
Read More On Messi
The 42-year-old is said to have worked as a chef with Argentina for the last decade.
She travels with the team on all of their trips abroad to cook for the players.
Antonia was at the Copa America triumph last year, the Finalissima win over Italy at Wembley in the summer, and then in Qatar for the World Cup victory.
And back at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Antonia was presented with a cake on her birthday at the same time as Messi.
Most read in Football
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST BETTING APPS FOR THE WORLD CUP
Aside from her culinary skills, Antonia is reported to be well-loved by the team for her positive personality.
So it was no surprise to see Messi look so pleased when Antonia wrapped him up in a hug – unlike his encounter with Salt Bae.
The celebrity chef somehow made his way onto the pitch after the final at Lusail Stadium to pester Messi for a selfie.
Messi was also joined by wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their sons Thiago, ten, Mateo, seven and Ciro, four, on the pitch.
The family celebrated together and took it in turns to kiss the World Cup trophy.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
