Emi Martinez reveals he visited a psychologist after Argentina’s shock defeat to Saudi Arabia

Emi Martinez has revealed he sought psychological help after Argentina’s shock defeat by Saudi Arabia.

Lionel Scaloni’s team are under huge pressure to lift the trophy for the first time since 1986, arriving in Qatar on a record 36-game unbeaten run, desperate to help Lionel Messi fulfil his dream in what will be his last World Cup.

‘I suffered a lot,’ said Aston Villa goalkeeper Martinez, reflecting on the Saudi shock after a 2-0 win against Mexico on Saturday got his team back on track in Group C. ‘I talked with a psychologist because they shot at me twice and I conceded both.

Saudi Arabia beat Martinez’s Argentina side 2-1 in one of the biggest World Cup shocks ever

‘I have 45 million Argentines behind me and I should have given more.’

It was 35-year-old Messi to the rescue with the vital first goal against the Mexicans, sending relief through the camp. Pablo Aimar, a former Argentina star now on Scaloni’s coaching staff, appeared to be in tears when Messi scored in the 64th minute at the Lusail Stadium.

‘The feeling you are playing more than a football match is not nice,’ said Scaloni. ‘We should have more common sense. Otherwise, every time we face something like this, the feeling we have will be relief. The important thing is to enjoy this World Cup. Messi should enjoy this World Cup. Argentina fans should enjoy seeing him play.’

There are similarities between this campaign and Italia 90. In both cases, they were beaten in their first game. Coaches Carlos Bilardo and Scaloni both made five changes for the second game and won it 2-0. 

If the trend continues, Scaloni’s team will draw 1-1 with Poland on Wednesday and lose in the final.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has said that his side ‘should have more common sense’

Lionel Messi bailed his side out of trouble with a goal and assist against Mexico on Saturday

The side, among the tournament favourites, should now have enough to qualify from Group C