Football

Lingering Resentment: Owen’s Unforgotten World Cup Woe With Beckham

In the annals of football history, moments of glory and heartbreak often intertwine, leaving indelible marks on players and fans alike. One such instance is etched in the memory of Michael Owen, who, decades later, still harbors resentment over a critical episode involving his England teammate, David Beckham, during the 1998 World Cup.

The scene was set in the knockout stage against Argentina, a match pulsating with tension. England found themselves level at 2-2 when Beckham, then hailed as ‘Golden Balls,’ succumbed to a moment of madness. A heated clash with Diego Simeone prompted Beckham to retaliate with a kick, an action witnessed by referee Kim Milton Nielsen, who promptly brandished a red card. The incident proved pivotal, and England ultimately bowed out in a penalty shootout, losing 4-3.

Owen, who had electrified the world with a stunning goal earlier in the match, remains haunted by the events of that fateful day. In a recent interview on Simon Jordan’s Up Front show, Owen candidly admitted that the resentment still lingers, stemming from the belief that Beckham’s mistake significantly contributed to England’s premature exit from the World Cup.

When questioned about the term “resentment,” Owen clarified that it wasn’t directed at Beckham personally but rather at the consequence of his actions. The former striker asserted that Beckham’s ill-fated decision to retaliate had repercussions that echoed beyond the match, impacting the team’s trajectory in the tournament.

In Owen’s view, reaching the pinnacle of football is an arduous journey, and the World Cup provides only a limited number of opportunities. Beckham’s lapse in judgment, a “childish” and “irresponsible” mistake, as described by Owen, became a source of frustration. The striker acknowledged the butterfly effect of such errors, especially when representing a nation on the grand stage.

The interview delved into Owen’s reflections on the “what-ifs” that haunt him, with the striker contemplating how a full-strength England could have altered the course of that encounter against Argentina. The regret was palpable as he mused about the self-inflicted wounds that have plagued England’s tournament history, referencing incidents like Wayne Rooney’s red card for stamping on Ricardo Carvalho.

Owen’s sentiments encapsulate the anguish of a generation of players who, despite possessing exceptional talent, grapple with the torment of missed opportunities on the international stage. The 1998 World Cup, with its highs and lows, remains a poignant chapter in Owen’s career, a tale of brilliance overshadowed by an ill-timed lapse that altered the course of football history.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Champions League, World Cup and many more.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

NBA: Warriors’ De’Anthony Melton to Miss Season with Knee Surgery

Golden State Warriors guard De’Anthony Melton will undergo season-ending surgery to repair a partially torn… Read More

November 21, 2024

Juan Mata Becomes First Active International Footballer to Join MLS Ownership with San Diego FC

World Cup-winning Spanish footballer Juan Mata has joined the ownership group of Major League Soccer’s… Read More

November 21, 2024

Millot may join PSG as French champions react to Yamal link

Since joining VfB Stuttgart from AS Monaco at a young age, Enzo Millot has thrived… Read More

November 21, 2024

Top three talking points for Premier League’s return

With the final international break of 2024 done and dusted, league football can resume across… Read More

November 21, 2024

PGA Tour introduces new changes ahead for 2026

The PGA Tour has announced significant changes to its eligibility criteria and tournament structures, set… Read More

November 21, 2024

Barcelona to endure lengthy Yamal absence

Spanish La Liga club Barcelona may have to endure a lengthy absence for Spanish winger… Read More

November 21, 2024