Spain were crowned world champions with a 1-0 victory over Argentina in New Jersey — but the aftermath was marred by a disgraceful brawl that has triggered calls for Fifa to ban several Argentina players.
At the final whistle, Leandro Paredes attacked a number of Spain players including Rodri, Eric Garcia and Gavi, throwing punches and kicking out, earning a red card. Argentina also turned their backs on Spain receiving their medals and lifting the trophy in what critics described as a poor act of sportsmanship.
“Spain beat Argentina in World Cup final; brawl erupts, Scaloni cries, Fifa probe demanded.”
The defeat left Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni devastated. The 48-year-old, who won the 2018 World Cup and two Copa America titles, broke down in tears during his post-match press conference when discussing his future. “I will talk to the president. I have an idea of what I would like to do,” he said. “I will see out my contract and I feel the need, I don't know if something as big can be done.”
Scaloni paused to choke back tears, saying: “Bear with me, I don't know if I can continue.” He eventually stood up and apologised before leaving the room. “It's really painful, I am very sorry,” he added. He later indicated an exit is possible in December.
The fallout extends beyond the pitch. Aston Villa’s transfer plans were thrown into disarray by an ACL injury to Amadou Onana during Belgium’s last-16 win over the USA, ruling him out until next year. The club responded by moving for Johan Manzambi and Joao Gomes, especially with Youri Tielemans joining Manchester United. Villa also completed a club-record £50m-plus deal for Switzerland’s Manzambi.
Argentina’s reputation has also taken a hit. The team, once beloved for their pluck under Lionel Messi in Qatar 2022, are now dubbed “surprise villains” by New York magazine. Under President Javier Milei, the nation’s association with Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu has drawn attention to darker elements in Argentine culture. Fans’ mantra “one must suffer” reflects a gritty resilience, but abroad the team’s conduct has shifted perceptions.
The Premier League will now reset as players return from a tournament that saw all 20 top-flight teams represented. Arsenal face an anxious wait over William Saliba’s back injury, while Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka will be monitored after helping England finish third. For Argentina, the pain of defeat and the spectre of disciplinary action may linger long into the new season.