Argentina's 2026 World Cup final defeat to Spain was marred by controversy as punches were thrown after the final whistle, a player was sent off, and riots erupted in Buenos Aires. Ferran Torres scored the extra-time winner for Spain, but the match will be remembered for Argentina's ill-discipline, which was branded a 'disgrace' by pundits.
Argentina's 'disgraceful' performance slammed
Former Chelsea star Craig Burley heavily criticized Argentina's performance on ESPN, stating: 'Argentina were a complete and utter disgrace today, both with their performance and their antics. We expected the antics, we expected the thuggery, we expected the off the ball stuff, but we also expected a lot more on the ball, a lot more purpose... they were an utter shambles, disgusting, disgraceful. I'm so pleased Spain won.'
Enzo Fernandez was sent off during the match, contributing to Argentina's lacklustre display. Lionel Scaloni's squad failed to impress, drawing widespread condemnation for their conduct on and off the ball.
Post-match brawl and punches thrown
Leandro Paredes was sent off after the final whistle for violent conduct. He kicked Eric Garcia to the ground and grabbed him by the throat before shoving him. Paredes also had a heated exchange with Gavi. Meanwhile, Molina appeared to punch Rodri. Alan Shearer, speaking on the BBC, said: 'Paredes threw two or three haymakers into someone's face. He went for them. There is no place or space for that.'
The unsavoury scenes marred Spain's victory, with the match ending in chaos as players clashed on the pitch.
Riots in Buenos Aires
Violence broke out in Buenos Aires after the defeat, with over a dozen people arrested. According to Argentine publication Infobae, disturbances began around 11:45pm near the Obelisk, a national landmark. A mob of fans tried to break through barriers, leading to 20 minutes of mayhem. Supporters threw glass bottles and missiles at police, who responded with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds.
Half-time show criticized
Wayne Rooney, appearing on the BBC's World Cup panel, slammed the half-time entertainment as 'crap'. He said: 'I'll be honest, mine (highlight) was when it finished. I like lot of those artists but I thought it was crap. I did, honestly. It just didn't get me going. I want the football to come back on. I like Burna Boy, I like Bieber, I like Shakira. That was flat.'
