Argentina players showed their displeasure after losing the World Cup final to Spain by turning their backs on the trophy presentation. The South Americans stood together by the 18-yard box, refusing to watch as Spain lifted the trophy.
Spain's victory and Argentina's reaction
Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time to secure Spain's second World Cup title, confirming their status as the world's best after winning Euro 2024 two years earlier. Argentina failed to defend the crown they won in 2022, with Lionel Messi missing out on another World Cup triumph at age 39.
The match was ill-tempered, with Enzo Fernandez sent off and emotions boiling over at the final whistle. Leandro Paredes, who was perhaps lucky to stay on the pitch, was shown a red card for throwing punches at Spanish stars Eric Garcia and Gavi after full time. Spanish players celebrated on the pitch when Argentine defender Nahuel Molina appeared to punch Rodri in the stomach.
Messi's emotional future
Messi was left in tears after what could be his final match for Argentina. He said: "I will talk to the president. I have an idea of what I would like to do. I will see out my contract and I feel the need, I don't know if something as big can be done. We need to speak this through."
He added: "I am thankful to the president for bringing me this chance of being in this place where I am at the moment. It was a dream place for everyone. We have tried up until the very last minute to give our utmost, the staff and players. I believe it's only fair that I can take this time for myself to think this through."
Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni's future is also in doubt after the defeat.
