Argentina’s World Cup Final Conduct
Argentina faced scrutiny following their World Cup final loss to Spain, with new footage emerging and former players criticising their conduct. The match, held in New Jersey, saw Spain secure a 1-0 victory after extra time. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off late in normal time, receiving two yellow cards.
Fernandez‘s first booking was for dissent towards Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic. He was later dismissed for a challenge on Pau Cubarsi. Despite the red card, Fernandez later stated on social media that the team represented their nation “in the best possible way,” emphasising that competing involves giving one’s all and never giving up, rather than just winning.
Further controversy arose from a viral clip showing Argentina full-back Nicolas Tagliafico appearing to clutch his ankle and fall to the ground moments after Fernandez‘s foul, despite no Spain player being nearby. The footage also shows Lionel Messi rushing to referee Slavko Vincic, pointing towards Tagliafico, seemingly in an attempt to influence the decision regarding Fernandez‘s dismissal. This effort did not alter the referee’s call, and Fernandez‘s red card stood.
After the final whistle, altercations occurred between members of the Argentina team and staff and celebrating Spain players. Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala were reportedly involved. Paredes was seen pushing Eric Garcia by the throat and later pushing Gavi to the ground. Ayala appeared to hold Garcia around the throat before striking Dani Olmo.
Fifa‘s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess these incidents. Any player or coach involved could face suspension, and the Argentine Football Association may also be fined.
Reactions and Speculation
Former England internationals strongly criticised Argentina‘s actions. Ex-England captain Alan Shearer commented on Paredes‘s actions, stating there is no place for such behaviour. Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart described the behaviour as “disgusting.” Micah Richards, another former England defender, called the conduct “embarrassing,” while Wayne Rooney noted that such reactions from Argentina have been seen before and urged for graciousness in defeat.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni attempted to de-escalate the situation in his post-match interview, stating, “We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat. Today, we are showing that we know how to lose.” He acknowledged the loss but stressed that it does not diminish their journey to the final.
Speculation has also arisen regarding Lionel Messi‘s future with the national team. Social media discussions questioned whether Messi informed his teammates that the final would be his last match for Argentina. Footage posted by Argentine television company RLC Noticias showed Messi urging his teammates to remain calm before the game, saying, “Let’s just concentrate on playing, nothing else – calm, OK? Forget everything else.”
Several media outlets in Argentina have suggested that the final could mark the end of an era, with some indicating it might be Scaloni‘s last match in charge and that Messi, visibly emotional after the game, is unlikely to play in another World Cup. Messi shared on social media that the pain is immense and will take time to heal, but he also holds onto the positive aspects.
Team’s Return and Future
Despite the defeat and the controversies, 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, receiving a red carpet welcome 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 to Argentina. However, Lionel Messi did not join the trip, instead returning to Miami, where he plays club football for Inter Miami.
Read Also
Source: bbc.com
