Spain star Dani Olmo was punched by Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala in disgraceful scenes that marred the aftermath of Sunday's World Cup final. The incident, captured on fan video, shows Ayala making a beeline for Olmo and striking him in the face. Olmo showed remarkable restraint in not retaliating and was led away by Spain's victorious head coach, Luis de la Fuente.
Spain crowned champions after 1-0 victory
Spain secured a well-deserved 1-0 win, with Ferran Torres scoring in the opening period of extra-time. Argentina, reduced to 10 men after Enzo Fernandez's red card, failed to muster a single shot on target during regulation time. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez kept Spain at bay but could not prevent the defeat.
Lionel Messi was one of the few Argentina players to keep a cool head afterward, reflecting on what is almost certainly his last World Cup appearance. The 39-year-old sobbed after the match.
Argentina players lose control
Lionel Scaloni's players displayed staggering ill-discipline after surrendering the title they won in Qatar four years ago. Spain skipper Rodri was dragged into a verbal altercation with Nicolas Otamendi, and Leandro Paredes received a red card after the final whistle for striking Gavi. Argentina are likely to face FIFA sanctions following the brawls.
Scaloni, highly emotional in the post-match press conference, broke down in tears and made an early exit. 'I feel sadness but knowing that we left everything out there,' he said. 'They were better, that's the truth.'
Messi's future uncertain
Scaloni also hinted at his own future, saying, 'I have to take time and think about the future because I'm not sure this can be achieved again.' He praised Messi: 'He is the best football player ever to set foot on a pitch.'
Argentina will almost certainly go into the next World Cup without Messi, who sobbed after what looks to be his last game on the global stage.
