The final whistle had barely sounded at New York New Jersey Stadium before the World Cup final descended into chaos. As Spain celebrated their 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina, a huge brawl erupted on the pitch, triggered by Leandro Paredes attacking Spain players including Rodri, Eric Garcia and Gavi. Paredes was sent off for throwing punches and kicking out, while Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez had already been dismissed for two bookable offences during the match.
Spain's win came courtesy of a Ferran Torres goal in extra time, capping a dominant performance that left Argentina without a single shot in regular time – the first team in World Cup final history to fail to do so. Lionel Messi, playing in what was likely his last World Cup match, was rarely involved as Spain suffocated Argentina defensively. "Messi, and Argentina, had finally run out of time," wrote Pablo Iglesias Maurer in the Guardian.
“Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in World Cup final, but brawl at final whistle triggers FIFA investigation.”
Argentina's behaviour at the final whistle drew widespread condemnation. They turned their backs on Spain as they received their medals and lifted the trophy, and there have been calls for Fifa to "throw the book" at the team. Fifa has launched an investigation into the violent scenes.
The drama extended to the trophy presentation itself, when US President Donald Trump awkwardly invaded Spain's celebrations. Fifa president Gianni Infantino was seen trying to usher him away as the trophy was hoisted aloft.
For Messi, the defeat does little to tarnish his legacy as the greatest player of his generation, but the manner of Argentina's collapse – both on the pitch and off it – leaves a bitter aftertaste. Spain, winners of their second World Cup, may be champions – but the story of the final will be remembered as much for the brawl as for the football.