ARGENTINA World Cup hero Emiliano Martinez has posted an incredible throwback photo as a kid from his Independiente days.
The Aston Villa ace, 30, stepped up for Argentina AGAIN to help his country win their third World Cup.
Argentina won the penalty shootout 4-2 after drawing 3-3 in 120 minutes of football.
Martinez made a number of top saves before the nail-biting shootout, notably against Randal Kolo Muani right at the death.
He also saved Kingsley Coman’s penalty before getting in Aurelien Tchouameni’s head.
Martinez threw the ball away, making Tchouameni go and pick it up before he dragged his effort wide of the post.
The keeper was honoured with the Golden Glove at full-time.
Argentina’s World Cup win caps off an astounding year-and-a-half for the Martinez and Co.
They won their first Copa America since 1993 last year with a 1-0 win over Brazil inside the Maracana.
The Finalissima was then resurrected in 2022 – pits the European champions against the South American kings – which saw Argentina beat Italy 3-0.
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Argentina contested the last Finalissima in 1993, where they beat Denmark on penalties.
And to celebrate the World Cup win, Martinez has posted an incredible throwback photo from his youth.
Martinez posted an old pic from his Independiente days, where he was donning long hair.
He said: “How it started. How it’s going.”
Martinez didn’t make his Argentina debut until last year.
And he was made to wait for a chance at the highest level at Arsenal.
He had SIX loan spells during his time at the Emirates, including one at Oxford United, who have congratulated him on his success.
Celebrations in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires have already begun.
Two-goal final captain Lionel Messi and Co have landed, trophy in hand, and have been given a heroes welcome.
The official party isn’t due to start until 3pm UK time.
