Argentina’s World Cup Final Conduct Under Scrutiny
Argentina faced scrutiny following their World Cup final loss to Spain, with incidents during and after the match drawing criticism. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was sent off late in normal time, stated that the team represented their nation in the best possible way, despite the controversies. Spain secured a 1-0 victory after extra time in New Jersey.
Fernandez received his first booking for dissent towards referee Slavko Vincic and was later dismissed for a challenge on Pau Cubarsi. In a social media statement, the Chelsea midfielder reflected on the team’s commitment, saying, "As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result." He added that the group has consistently represented the team at the highest level, defending their colours with pride, humility, and commitment.
Following the final whistle, members of the Argentina team and backroom staff were involved in altercations with celebrating Spain players. Fifa‘s disciplinary committee has appointed a prosecutor to assess the events, which could lead to suspensions for players or coaches and a fine for the Argentine Football Association. Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala appeared to be involved in the confrontations. Paredes was seen pushing Spain‘s Eric Garcia by the throat, and later pushed Gavi to the ground. Ayala also appeared to hold Garcia around the throat before striking Dani Olmo.
Fresh footage circulating online has brought further attention to the incident involving Fernandez’s red card. The video reportedly shows Argentina full-back Nicolas Tagliafico clutching his ankle and falling to the ground near Spain‘s penalty area moments after Fernandez’s foul, despite no Spain player being in close proximity. Lionel Messi was also seen rushing towards referee Slavko Vincic immediately after the red card, seemingly attempting to draw attention to Tagliafico.
Reactions and Speculation
The actions of the Argentina players on the pitch drew strong criticism from former England internationals. Former England captain Alan Shearer commented on Paredes‘ actions, stating there is no place for such behaviour, and described Argentina‘s reaction after the final whistle as "terrible." Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart called the behaviour "disgusting." Former England defender Micah Richards described the conduct as "embarrassing," while former England captain Wayne Rooney also criticised Argentina‘s reaction, suggesting it was a response to being outplayed.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni attempted to de-escalate the situation in his post-match interview. He emphasised the importance of being gracious in defeat, stating, "We lost the match, and we accept it, but that doesn’t mean we stop living or forget everything we did to get here."
Speculation has also arisen regarding events before the match, particularly concerning Lionel Messi. Social media discussions have focused on whether Messi informed his teammates that the final would be his last match for the national side. Footage from Argentine television company RLC Noticias reportedly shows Messi urging his teammates to remain calm before the game, telling them to "forget about everything else" and "just concentrate on playing."
Aftermath and Future Outlook
Despite the defeat, thousands of Argentina fans greeted the team with an open-top bus parade through the streets of Buenos Aires. Scaloni and 16 of his 26 players returned to the country, where they were welcomed with a red carpet and a military band at Ezeiza International Airport. Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who made 11 saves during the final, was among the players who returned.
However, Messi did not make the trip back to Argentina, instead returning to Miami, where he plays club football for Inter Miami. Messi expressed his pain on social media, writing, "The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold onto all the good things."
Media outlets in Argentina have suggested that the final could mark the end of an era, with speculation that it might be Scaloni‘s last match in charge and that Messi is unlikely to play in another World Cup. Argentina had won their first seven matches in North America before losing to Spain, including a 2-1 semi-final victory against England with goals from Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez.
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Source: bbc.com
Priya Nair
Sports Reporter
