Following their FIFA World Cup 2026 final loss to Spain, Argentina faced criticism for their post-match conduct, particularly during the medal ceremony. Observers described the team as “classless” after Lionel Messi and his teammates did not remain on the podium for Spain’s trophy presentation. The final, held at the New York New Jersey Stadium, saw Spain defeat the defending champions 1-0 in extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute. This victory marked Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title and extended their unbeaten streak to an European-record 38 matches.
The controversy began after Argentina received their silver medals. Instead of staying to applaud the new world champions, the players moved to the opposite side of the pitch as Spain prepared to lift the trophy. This action drew attention because Spain had previously formed a guard of honour and applauded Argentina when they went to collect their runners-up medals. The atmosphere remained tense during the individual awards ceremony, with sections of Argentina supporters chanting Lionel Messi’s name as Rodri received the Golden Ball award for the tournament’s best player.
Post-Match Altercations and Disciplinary Actions
Tempers had already flared immediately after the final whistle. Players from both sides engaged in a confrontation, with video footage showing Argentina defender Leandro Paredes appearing to grab Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat. Paredes then pushed substitute Gavi to the ground when he attempted to intervene. Players and Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni stepped in to de-escalate the situation. Paredes was later shown a red card following the altercation. It remains uncertain if further disciplinary action will be taken, as FIFA has not yet commented on the incident.
Another incident involved Argentina defender Nahuel Molina, who appeared to swing a punch at Spain captain Rodri. This led to a confrontation between Molina and Rodri, which further escalated the tensions on the field. Additionally, video footage reportedly showed Argentina assistant coach Daniel Ayala striking Spain midfielder Dani Olmo. Argentina could face additional disciplinary proceedings as FIFA is expected to investigate the post-match scenes.
During the medal presentation, Argentina centre-back Cristian Romero reportedly snubbed a handshake from Donald Trump, who was conducting the medal ceremony. Romero shook hands with FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum, who were positioned on either side of Trump, but did not engage with the US president.
Criticism of Argentina’s Conduct
Broadcaster Adrian Durham strongly condemned Argentina’s behaviour on talkSPORT, stating that they showed “no class whatsoever” and were a “total disgrace.” He also criticised the fans for chanting Messi’s name during Rodri’s award presentation, suggesting they could not accept Argentina’s defeat. Durham further questioned Argentina’s performances throughout the tournament, calling them an “embarrassment to the game” and the World Cup.
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart labelled Argentina’s behaviour “disgusting,” while Gary Neville on ITV described it as a “disgrace.” Alan Shearer on BBC noted that Paredes “threw two or three haymakers into someone’s face” and emphasised that there is “no place or space for that.” Shearer added that while the passion is understood, there is a way to lose, and Argentina’s reaction was “terrible.”
Hart acknowledged that Messi was the only player on the pitch who displayed class, shaking hands with every Spanish player. He also stated that Spain fully deserved their victory, having been superb throughout the tournament and dominating the final. Argentina had previously faced criticism for their aggressive behaviour during their 2-1 semi-final win over England. Wayne Rooney commented that Argentina’s behaviour did not surprise him, having seen similar reactions before, and stressed the importance of being graceful in defeat.
The final itself remained goalless during normal time, despite Spain controlling possession and creating more chances. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made several saves to deny Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Pau Cubarsi. Argentina’s chances were further hampered in stoppage time when Enzo Fernandez was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a late challenge on Cubarsi, making him only the sixth player to be dismissed in a FIFA World Cup final. Spain eventually secured the win in the 106th minute.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
