New footage has surfaced showing the moments that sparked the World Cup final brawl, revealing that Argentina defender Nahuel Molina punched Spain midfielder Rodri as he ran past to celebrate Spain's victory. The incident, captured from the stands at Metlife Stadium, led to a mass confrontation that resulted in Leandro Paredes being sent off for violent conduct.
Rodri Punched as Spain Celebrated
Rodri, the Golden Ball winner, and fellow Spain substitutes flooded onto the pitch to celebrate Ferran Torres' extra-time goal that secured Spain's world title. As Rodri ran past, Molina punched him in the midriff. Rodri turned to confront Molina, which was spotted by Barcelona defender Eric Garcia, who stopped embracing Borja Iglesias to defend Rodri, shoving Molina before Iglesias backed him up as Rodri walked away.
Paredes Launches Attack
As a linesman intervened, Molina slipped away to join Nicolas Tagliafico in confronting Rodri again. Paredes then cowardly steamed in, kicking Garcia's legs from under him. As Garcia returned to his feet, Gavi ran over to support his Barcelona teammate, and Paredes threw a punch at him, grappling him to the floor and sparking the melee.
Referee Slavko Vincic showed Paredes a red card after Enzo Fernandez was sent off at the end of regulation time for a second bookable offence. Argentina's physical approach drew heavy criticism, with Alan Shearer on the BBC calling it an embarrassment. Shearer said: "Paredes threw two or three haymakers into someone's face. He went for them. There is no place or space for that. We know how much it means to them and how much it hurts to lose, but there is a way to lose. Too many times we have seen that from Argentina."
FIFA Action Expected
Lionel Messi looks set to walk away from the national team after the humiliating end. The punishment Argentina will receive remains to be seen, with FIFA expected to take a firm stance after claims they favoured Argentina in the tournament.
