Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has criticised rival fans for spreading what he called 'baseless conspiracy theories' about his national team during their World Cup campaign, following a heated final defeat to Spain. The match, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, saw Spain win 1-0 thanks to an extra-time strike from Ferran Torres, denying Argentina the chance to become the first team in 64 years to successfully defend the World Cup title.
De Paul's Instagram statement
De Paul took to Instagram to express his frustration, writing: 'The deepest pain comes from not being able to bring the World Cup trophy back to our country once again, because if anyone deserved to experience that feeling again, it was you. But as the hours pass, I'm realising that the bond you share with this team goes far beyond the trophy itself – and that is what I'm holding onto to help me get through this moment.' He added: 'Today, I look at how many people were waiting for this fall, spreading baseless conspiracy theories throughout the World Cup just to soothe their own pain at not being able to experience what we Argentines were living through – because our smiles bother them, because our ways get under their skin…'
De Paul suggested that the negative comments from the footballing world had only strengthened the unity within the Argentina squad. 'All that did was reaffirm that the passion and love for our jersey can overcome anything,' he continued. 'It will hurt for a long time, but today, more than ever, I am proud to be ARGENTINE.'
Messi's message of pain and pride
A day earlier, Lionel Messi shared his own emotional response on social media, describing 'immense pain' at being denied a second World Cup triumph. The 39-year-old, who finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, was seen in tears after the final whistle. 'The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal,' Messi wrote. 'But I also hold onto all the good things… the matches we turned around by giving it our all – moments that will remain in our memories forever – and the support of an entire country which, combined with this group's hard work and effort, brought us back among the world's elite once again. It is hard to fully appreciate our achievement right now, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals.' Messi also thanked his supporters and congratulated Spain on their victory.
Controversy and disciplinary issues
The final was marred by violent clashes between players, with Argentina's Leandro Paredes sent off after Enzo Fernandez's earlier red card. The ill discipline has drawn criticism and potential FIFA sanctions. Despite this, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni defended his squad, claiming they had set a 'great example for our people and country' while 'showing how to lose', although they were criticised for turning their backs during Spain's trophy lift. Spain, who conceded just one goal in the entire tournament, celebrated their second World Cup title amid the ugly scenes.
