French fans boo Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for winning Yachine Trophy during the Ballon d’Or ceremony

During the Ballon d’Or ceremony on Monday evening, Didier Drogba, the legendary former footballer and host of the event, found himself in a situation where French fans in attendance began to boo Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez as he received the Yashin Trophy.

Drogba, taking charge of the event, attempted to restore order and reminded the fans to show respect to Martinez for his Yashin Trophy win.

Addressing the French fans, Drogba remarked on the importance of a particular save that remained etched in their memories, referencing a video clip of Martinez’s incredible save against Randal Kolo Muani’s 123rd-minute goal attempt during the World Cup final. As the footage played in the background, Drogba asked Martinez if this save was a defining moment he relives daily.

The French fans reacted strongly to the video clip, voicing their displeasure with boos. Drogba had to step in, speaking to the crowd in French, and urged them to remain quiet and respect Martinez.

Additionally, there were chants of ‘Mbappe,’ possibly in reference to Martinez’s alleged taunting of Kylian Mbappe after the World Cup final.

After order was restored, Martinez continued with his victory speech and expressed his gratitude to his teammates for making the award possible. He conveyed his emotions, saying, “I’m full of emotion to have won this,” and acknowledged the vital role played by his teammates at Aston Villa and in the Argentina national team in achieving this career milestone.

Martinez emerged as the winner of the prestigious Yashin Trophy, surpassing competition from prominent goalkeepers like Thibaut Courtois, Ederson, Aaron Ramsdale, Andre Onana, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen. This victory marked his second nomination for the award, having been previously nominated in 2021.

The pivotal moment that led to Martinez’s recognition was his heroic stop in the World Cup final. Had he not made that critical save, allowing Argentina to claim the World Cup trophy, the match’s outcome might have been quite different. The save against Kolo Muani’s goal attempt prevented an imminent defeat and provided the Albiceleste with a lifeline.

In a subsequent segment of the ceremony, Lionel Messi secured his eighth Ballon d’Or award, further solidifying his position as one of the most decorated footballers in the history of the sport.