Argentina's World Cup squad refused to watch Spain's trophy lift following a contentious 1-0 final victory that was marred by post-match brawls. The Argentinian players, staff, and coaches turned their backs as Spain's team celebrated their championship win at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
FIFA supremo Gianni Infantino and U.S. President Donald Trump were present on stage as the Argentine squad collected their silver medals. After receiving their awards, the players congregated at the opposite end of the stage, facing away from the Spanish team as they were presented with the World Cup trophy amidst a shower of confetti.
The incident followed a heated conclusion to the match, where Spain secured their victory in the 106th minute with a goal from Ferran Torres. The final whistle triggered multiple altercations between players from both sides.
Argentina's Enzo Fernandez received a red card in the 93rd minute for a foul on Pau Cubarsi. At full-time, midfielder Leandro Paredes was sent off for punching Eric Garcia and pushing Gavi. Nahuel Molina of Argentina also confronted Rodri, appearing to punch him during the melee, with Thiago Almada also involved in the confrontations.
The match was a low-scoring affair for Argentina, who registered only two shots throughout the entire game. Their first shot on target did not come until the 117th minute. Paredes had also been fortunate to avoid a second yellow card in regular time for a foul near the penalty area that led to a late free-kick for Spain.
Argentina's display throughout the final was described as aggressive, drawing parallels to their semi-final victory against England. Torres's extra-time goal proved decisive in a match where tensions ran high from the outset.