A ‘Player of the Match’ award can always be an interesting, alternative betting market and, usually, this is decided based on the governing body or organisation of the place or country where the match is being played, or if it is an international tournament such as the World Cup, this would come via FIFA.
However, if there is no official body, this would be decided based on the media organisation that has the rights to present this – such as Sky or the BBC.
If a bet is made on a player that takes no active part in a game, then this would be void and stakes refunded as a result.
Below, to make this interesting, we have taken a look at examples where the player of the match award has been unexpected or controversial.
Lionel Messi
The 2014 World Cup produced many surprises, though perhaps none more so than the Player of the Match award during Argentina’s defeat to Germany following Mario Gotze’s extra time winner.
Messi was awarded the Golden Ball for his exploits in the tournament, but also the Player of the Match. Many were of the opinion that it should have gone to a German player such as goalkeeper Manuel Neuer of Thomas Muller.
Cristiano Ronaldo
The Euro 2016 final threw up a number of surprises, none more so, perhaps than the Player of the Match. Portugal beat France 1-0 in extra-time, though talisman Ronaldo, who spent limited time on the pitch was awarded the Player of the Match award.
10 de julho de 2016, 20h25. @Cristiano Ronaldo sai lesionado do relvado do Stade de France. #10deJulho #Euro2016 #TeamPortugal 🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/Gn5QZWpUuz
— Portugal (@selecaoportugal) July 10, 2017
Many felt that this was controversial, though others were of the opinion that his influence from the sideline was a driving factor behind his country’s victory. Throughout, he was animated, motivating his teammates – passion shining through and you have been forgiven for thinking he was the coach..
Gonzalo Higuain
The 2017 Champions League semi-final between Juventus and AS Monaco saaw Higuain notch twice to secure victory and earn him the Player of the Match award.
Despite these exploits, many felt that Dani Alves was the deserved winner of this, for both his defensive and attacking contribution to the win, with the Brazilian full back providing both assists.
Harry Kane
In the UEFA Nations League match for England against Germany which ended in a 1-1 draw, England captain Kane was awarded the Player of the Match award after scoring a penalty.
However, many felt that goalkeeper, Nick Pope was overshadowed for the award after a standout performances that saw him make some crucial saves that kept England in the game. It was thought that Kane’s status was the driving factor behind him receiving this award.
Kylian Mbappe
The Frenchman has always divided opinion though his talent cannot be disputed. During PSG’s Champions League last 16 game against Barcelona, Mbappe scored a hatrick against the Spanish side, which they won 4-1.
Despite this, many believed that it was actually Marco Verratti who was the deserved winner of the Player of the Match award for his contribution to the game.
