Argentina players turned their backs on Spain as they received their medals and lifted the World Cup trophy following a fractious final that descended into violence. The Argentine squad lost their composure at the final whistle, with punches thrown and a mass confrontation erupting on the pitch. FIFA will investigate the unsavoury scenes, and several Argentine players, including Leandro Paredes and Enzo Fernandez, face disciplinary action.
Violence erupts after final whistle
Argentina's title defence ended with a 1-0 defeat to Spain, but the aftermath was overshadowed by unsavoury scenes. As Spain's substitutes raced onto the field in celebration, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appeared to punch Spain captain Rodri in the stomach. Rodri confronted Molina, who squared up and bumped him in the chest, triggering a mass confrontation. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes, already booked, jabbed Spain defender Eric Garcia in the throat before wrestling Gavi to the ground and shoving him in the face. Paredes was reportedly shown a red card after the violence subsided.
Players turn backs during trophy ceremony
During the trophy ceremony, Argentina players stood with their backs to the podium while Spain celebrated alongside US President Donald Trump. Former England defender Stuart Pearce told talkSPORT: "When Spain were about to lift their trophy, the Argentinians, to a man, all stood with their back to the trophy lift. That probably tells you a great deal, doesn't it?" Presenter Adrian Durham added: "Yeah, no class, whatsoever. They've been absolutely shocking. They've been a total disgrace here today."
Manager's comments spark scepticism
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni insisted his players conducted themselves graciously, saying: "We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat. Today, we are showing that we know how to lose. We lost the match and we accept it, but that doesn't mean we stop living or forget everything we did to get here." His remarks were met with scepticism given the heated exchanges at the final whistle. FIFA will investigate and could sanction the Argentine FA for failing to control their players.
