Argentina's players have been heavily criticised for a lack of sportsmanship after their World Cup final defeat to Spain, following a match marred by violent conduct and disrespectful behaviour. Spain secured a 1-0 victory in extra time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal. However, the actions of Argentina's players after the final whistle drew widespread condemnation.
Paredes sent off for violent conduct
After the final whistle, Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was sent off for kicking Eric Garcia to the floor and grabbing the Spain defender by the throat. Pundits described the scenes as 'disgusting'. This was not the only incident that tarnished Argentina's behaviour.
Argentina turns backs on Spain during medal ceremony
Long after the match ended, Argentina showed little interest in respecting the victors. As Spain's players approached the podium to collect their medals from US President Donald Trump, having already given Argentina a guard of honour, the defeated side turned their backs on the champions. One fan on X wrote: "A total lack of class and respect." Another added: "Sore losers. That's not how football is played, Argentina. Be better." A third said: "Sore losers to the highest degree." However, some questioned whether the players were simply facing their own fans.
Messi in tears as fans give rousing send-off
Lionel Messi was left in floods of tears as he received a final rousing send-off from Argentina supporters gathered behind the goal. The Argentina squad remained standing in a line, backs firmly turned to Spain throughout the medal ceremony and subsequent trophy lift, before making a swift exit from the pitch.
Torres dedicates winner to Spain's people
After netting the winner, Ferran Torres said: "I think in the end the goal came from 47 million people, not just those of us that are here. Today destiny was written, it was made for us to win. We're far from our people today but we tried to be as close as possible to them." He added: "Finals are hard. When you have Messi on the opposing team you do get worried but we always backed ourselves and tried to show our football and I think we managed to do it once again." Torres also spoke of his relief: "A huge relief [to score]. I've been criticized throughout the whole tournament but as I said before destiny was written. Thanks to God, he always gives me the strength to continue and in the end he grants things to those that most deserve them."
De la Fuente praises Spain's team spirit
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed immense pride: "So much pride. Pride for this generation of footballers that have been growing with this idea, staying loyal to the idea, and doing their best. They are an example of a team, a group, a family, and a collective of great players that have been exceptional. I'm just so proud to have accompanied them on this journey." He added: "I can't really tell you how I feel. All I can say was it was worth it. Of course at the moment I am very emotional, particularly having watched from behind the scenes." De la Fuente also noted the team's resilience: "We would have liked to win the game much sooner. The Martinez save prevented us from doing so. We tried and tried but this is a World Cup final, even against ten men at the end we had to suffer. But, we like to suffer, and I'll say it again, we were prepared for everything."
