Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni left his post-match news conference in tears when talking about his future after Sunday's World Cup final defeat by Spain. The emotional collapse came just hours after a night of chaos at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where Argentina's players sparked a brawl that has triggered a FIFA investigation.
Spain had won 1-0 with an extra-time winner from Ferran Torres, but the result was overshadowed by the violent scenes that erupted after the final whistle. Argentina had been reduced to ten men late in normal time after Enzo Fernandez's reckless moment earned a red card. Tensions then exploded as Leandro Paredes threw punches and kicks at rival players celebrating on the pitch. Others were dragged into the mayhem before calm was eventually restored for the medal ceremony.
“Argentina boss Scaloni wept after World Cup final defeat as Infantino praised Spain's conduct.”
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has since declared Spain a shining example to football, in stark contrast to Argentina's behaviour. Infantino's views were relayed by Spain boss Luis de la Fuente, who disclosed a private conversation with the FIFA president. “I always say that private conversations should be private, but in this case, I think it's worth mentioning,” de la Fuente told Marca. “Infantino and I met at the Olympic Games, where we won the silver medal. The players' behaviour was spectacular. They put on their medals, they didn't take them off, they enjoyed the closing ceremony. When the ceremony was over, Infantino came up to me and said, 'Mister, your players are an example.'”
De la Fuente confirmed that Infantino repeated the sentiment after the World Cup final. “He reminded me of it the other day, saying, 'What I told you at the Olympic Games still applies today. What an example of everything: team spirit, camaraderie, generosity, sacrifice, and footballing greatness.' And that's something to be proud of. It's the greatest source of pride, beyond anything purely related to football.”
The praise stands in sharp contrast to the conduct of certain Argentina players, who not only ignited confrontations on the pitch but also turned their backs as Spain received the trophy. FIFA has subsequently launched an investigation into the distasteful scenes.
For Scaloni, the defeat and its aftermath proved too much. His tearful exit from the press conference has left Argentina's future uncertain, as Infantino’s words underscore the widening gulf in behaviour between the two finalists.