Paraguay Goalkeeper Explains Why He Struck Mbappé

Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gil has spoken out about the incident that occurred after the final whistle of their World Cup Round of 16 match against France (0-1). It appears the goalkeeper attempted to shake hands with French captain Kylian Mbappé, but the forward ignored him and began celebrating. Gil then demonstratively threw the ball at his opponent, hitting him in the back, though Mbappé did not react.

“Kylian Mbappé infuriated me. I extended my hand to congratulate him, but he ignored me,” Gil stated after the match, as reported by BTA.

The 26-year-old shot-stopper plays in the Argentine league for San Lorenzo.