As Argentina's captain, the legendary Lionel Messi, prepared to lift the coveted World Cup trophy, Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, donned a black robe.
The mantle, a traditional garment for men in the Arab world, covered a good part of Argentina's jersey, including the national symbol.
The gesture was widely commented on in social networks. Some praised him for the fact that he showed a sign of respect, while others considered it unnecessary. "Just why? There is no reason to do this,” someone said online. "It's a shame they took his shirt off during this magical moment," said BBC presenter Gary Lineker.
Messi wore the mantle after his team defeated France on penalties, after the score 3-3. Messi scored twice during the match - and hit the goal where he took the penalty. Argentina won the World Cup for the first time since 1986.
