Wayne Rooney has launched a scathing attack on Argentina's behaviour following their World Cup final defeat to Spain, insisting the South Americans "got what they deserved" after a match marred by physicality and post-match chaos.
Rooney's Verdict on Argentina's Performance
Speaking as a pundit on the BBC, the former England striker did not hold back in his assessment of Argentina's conduct throughout the tournament and especially in the final. "We've seen it with Argentina before. It's not the reaction you want. We saw it after knocking England out in the last round as well. Enzo Fernandez has got what he deserves. It's disappointing. That's just sad," Rooney said.
He added: "If you lose a game, get out of there. That's just not good enough. It's a reaction to them being outplayed, outfought, outthought. They resort to that at the end. It's sad."
Post-Match Brawls and Red Cards
The final descended into chaos after the full-time whistle. Argentina's Enzo Fernandez was sent off during the match, while Leandro Paredes received a red card for throwing punches at Spanish players Eric Garcia and Gavi after the game. Spanish players had raced onto the pitch to celebrate when Argentine defender Nahuel Molina appeared to punch Rodri in the stomach.
Joe Hart, also on BBC duty alongside Rooney, echoed the criticism. "It's disgusting," he said. "There was one man on the pitch who did have class and it was Lionel Messi. He shook hands with every one of the Spanish players. The game is done. They can have absolutely no complaints about what happened today. Disgusting behaviour."
Criticism of Argentina's Tactics
Throughout their run to the final, Argentina had faced criticism for their overly physical approach, with some accusing them of employing the "dark arts" of football. Their semi-final performance against England, where they produced quality only in the final half-hour, also drew ire. In the final, they were firmly second best to Spain, who dominated possession and created more chances.
Hart added: "Rodri didn't need to get in their faces, but when you've been wound up for 120 minutes, and you've felt wronged with the referee on your back, you've got that win, the referee has blown his whistle, leave it."
