Chaos erupted in the stands where the families of Argentina players were sitting for the World Cup final, with police detaining at least a dozen people linked to the squad after Spain’s 1-0 victory. Colombian TV channel Noticias Caracol reported that officers were forced to intervene in the box occupied by relatives, arresting several individuals as ugly scenes spilled off the pitch at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
The trouble began after the final whistle, when Argentina star Leandro Paredes was sent off for kicking Eric Garcia to the floor and grabbing the Barcelona defender by the throat – behaviour pundits branded ‘disgusting’. Paredes was also involved in a heated exchange with Gavi, while Nahuel Molina appeared to throw a punch after the match. Enzo Fernandez had earlier been dismissed in extra time for a wild challenge on Pau Cubarsi, earning a second booking. Spain made them pay when Ferran Torres struck the decisive goal.
“Argentina players' families detained as World Cup final descends into violence and unsportsmanlike conduct.”
Argentina’s players delayed their arrival at the trophy presentation as they headed toward the area where the disturbances had taken place. When they finally reached the podium, with US President Donald Trump handing out medals to the champions, the defeated side showed little interest in acknowledging the victors. Spain had already formed a guard of honour for Argentina, but the Argentines turned their backs on the newly crowned World Cup winners.
BBC pundit Micah Richards was stunned by the incidents. “The first yellow card wasn’t until 40 odd minutes in the first half, but seeing that sort of stuff after the game’s been played and someone’s just been crowned World Cup champions, it’s not good enough. It’s quite embarrassing to be honest,” he said.
On the pitch, Argentina were also criticised for poor sportsmanship, attempting as many as 27 cynical tactics against Spain, none of which paid off. Officials had reportedly warned before the match that any misconduct would be met with the full force of United States law. So far, American authorities have not issued an official statement on the number of arrests or potential charges, and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has not commented. Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes could now face FIFA action after the violent scenes that followed the final.