Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez has found another unique way to honor his iconic save in the 2022 World Cup final, customizing his maté straw (bombilla) with a laser-engraved silhouette of the exact moment he denied Randal Kolo Muani. Fans spotted the detail recently when Martínez arrived at Villa Park: the metal straw features the precise outline of his left-footed block in the 123rd minute of extra time, preserving a 3-3 scoreline and sending the match to penalties, where Argentina claimed the title.

That save is widely regarded as one of the most pivotal moments in modern football history. With the score tied 3-3, Kolo Muani broke free for a one-on-one chance, but Martínez rushed out and extended his left leg to deflect the close-range effort—a stop many experts have dubbed the “save of the century.” It paved the way for Argentina’s 4-2 penalty shootout victory, with Martínez again starring by denying Kingsley Coman and psychologically unsettling Aurélien Tchouaméni.

Engraving the silhouette on his bombilla—the traditional metal straw used for drinking yerba maté, Argentina’s national beverage—ensures Martínez carries the memory with him daily. Maté is deeply embedded in Argentine culture, especially among players like Lionel Messi and Martínez, who often bring their maté kits to training and matches. This custom bombilla elevates a simple tool into a personal talisman, much like the World Cup tattoo he got on the same left leg shortly after the triumph in 2022.

Fans quickly shared images online, with reactions pouring in: “Dibu carries that save with him every single day!”, “He immortalized the greatest moment of his career.” Many compared it to his famous tattoo: the World Cup trophy with three stars (for Argentina’s titles in 1978, 1986, and 2022) and the inscription “May passion lead you to glory.”

Martínez, who won the Golden Glove at Qatar 2022 for his heroics against the Netherlands and France, often speaks humbly about the save. In recent interviews, he revealed he simply prayed for contact and chose to rush out rather than stay rooted, defying conventional European goalkeeping wisdom.

The detail emerged in December 2025 as Martínez prepares for the Premier League season and upcoming Argentina fixtures. It further cements Dibu’s image as a symbol of resilience and national pride—from his roots in Mar del Plata to Qatar hero.

The save didn’t just rescue Argentina; it has become endless inspiration for Martínez himself, now literally etched onto his daily companion. A simple yet profoundly meaningful tribute from “Dibu”—the man who always has his maté and that championship memory close at hand.