Argentina’s post-World Cup final conduct against Spain sparks controversy. Lionel Messi and team criticised as ‘classless’ for leaving podium during trophy pres
Argentina faced significant criticism following their defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. Post-match events, particularly during the medal ceremony, drew widespread condemnation from various parts of the football community. Several observers described the runners-up 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 Argentina 1-0 after extra time. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, securing La Roja‘s second FIFA World Cup title and extending their unbeaten run to a European-record 38 matches. Argentina‘s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, made several key saves throughout the match, denying chances from Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Pau Cubarsi.
Post-Match Altercations and Conduct
Controversy arose after Argentina collected their silver medals. Instead of staying to applaud the newly crowned champions, the players moved to the opposite side of the pitch as Spain prepared to lift the trophy. This action garnered attention, especially since Spain had previously formed a guard of honour and applauded Argentina when they received their runners-up medals.
The atmosphere remained tense during the individual awards ceremony. When Rodri stepped forward to receive the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, sections of Argentina supporters in the stadium chanted Lionel Messi‘s name, a moment that also drew criticism.
Broadcaster Adrian Durham strongly condemned Argentina‘s behaviour, calling it a “total disgrace.” He noted that even during the trophy lift, fans chanted Messi‘s name, suggesting an inability to accept Argentina‘s defeat. Durham also criticised Argentina‘s overall tournament performance, describing them as an “embarrassment to the game.”
Tempers had already flared immediately after the final whistle. Video footage showed Argentina defender Leandro Paredes appearing to grab Spain‘s Eric Garcia by the throat before pushing substitute Gavi to the ground when he tried to intervene. Players from both teams, along with Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, quickly intervened to calm the situation. Paredes was later shown a red card for the altercation.
Another incident involved Nahuel Molina, an Argentina defender, who appeared to swing a punch at Spain captain Rodri. Molina then confronted Rodri, bumping him in the chest, which prompted Eric Garcia to step in. Paredes then jabbed Garcia in the throat. Later, Paredes spun Gavi to the ground and appeared to push into his face while holding him by his bib. Spain‘s Borja Iglesias then collided with Paredes. Video footage also suggested that Argentina assistant coach Daniel Ayala struck Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.
Reactions and Potential Consequences
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart labelled Argentina‘s behaviour “disgusting,” while Gary Neville described it as a “disgrace.” Alan Shearer commented that there is no place for such actions, stating that while losing hurts, there is a way to lose. Hart praised Lionel Messi for shaking hands with the Spanish players, noting that Spain fully deserved their victory.
Spain midfielder Dani Olmo, when asked about Argentina‘s conduct, emphasised the importance of values. He stated, “We are an example for many generations, for many boys and girls, and I think they should also be an example for everyone, and for the better.”
Argentina‘s hopes in the final were also hampered by a red card for Enzo Fernandez in stoppage time, who received a second yellow card for a late challenge on Cubarsi. He became only the sixth player to be dismissed in a FIFA World Cup final. Argentina could face additional disciplinary proceedings, as FIFA will investigate the post-match scenes to determine if further action is warranted. FIFA‘s Disciplinary Code states that players sent off for violent conduct will be suspended for at least three matches.
Lionel Messi, who scored eight goals in the tournament, was seen crying after the defeat and watching Argentina fans serenade him. He then led his teammates to collect their runners-up medals. Messi, who is yet to confirm his international future, is expected to have played his final World Cup. He became only the third player to appear in three men’s World Cup finals. Argentina centre-back Cristian Romero notably did not shake hands with Donald Trump during the medal presentation, shaking hands instead with FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum.
The post-match altercations involving Paredes and Molina are likely to lead to severe disciplinary action from FIFA. Additionally, Enzo Fernandez faces a suspension following his dismissal.
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Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
