FIFA has announced an investigation into the conduct of Argentina's players in the aftermath of their World Cup final defeat to Spain. The probe follows violent scenes that erupted at the final whistle, with new footage indicating the precise moment a brawl began.
Spain secured their second World Cup title with a 1-0 victory in extra time at MetLife Stadium. Following the match, a physical altercation occurred between players from both teams, leading to the red card of Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes for engaging with Spain's Eric Garcia and Gavi. FIFA confirmed it will open disciplinary proceedings into Paredes's actions and will also examine the roles of other players and officials.
New video footage suggests the confrontation was initiated when Argentina's Nahuel Molina made contact with Spain captain Rodri. This encounter escalated into a larger melee involving players from both sides, culminating in Paredes's actions. According to DAZN Spain, Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi later confronted Rodri, referencing pre-match comments by the Spanish midfielder about officiating concerns. Rodri had previously expressed unease regarding potential officiating biases before the final.
Argentina's performance throughout the match drew criticism. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a red card in the 93rd minute for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi, an incident described as emblematic of Argentina's aggressive approach. Fernandez reportedly protested his dismissal and subsequently attempted to have his Chelsea teammate Marc Cucurella sent off for covering his face while speaking with Lionel Messi, a tactic that new laws state can result in a red card. Replays indicated Cucurella was merely scratching his nose.
Following the match, Argentina's players, coaches, and staff accepted their silver medals from FIFA President Gianni Infantino and U.S. President Donald Trump but declined to watch as Spain lifted the trophy. Instead, they turned their backs towards the Spanish celebration. Argentina managed only two shots during the entire game, with their first shot on target occurring in the 117th minute.
During the trophy presentation, President Trump took a prominent position on stage alongside Infantino, a placement that drew boos from some sections of the crowd. Despite an apparent attempt by Infantino to usher him aside, Trump remained near the Spanish team as they celebrated. Tottenham defender Cristian Romero was noted to have ignored Trump while collecting his medal.
In a peculiar detail, President Trump presented several individual awards to Spain's players, including the Young Player of the Tournament, Golden Glove, and Golden Ball awards to Pau Cubarsi, Unai Simon, and Rodri, respectively. This occurred despite Trump having recently criticized Spain's contributions to NATO.
The World Cup final also featured a halftime show that included performances by Madonna, Coldplay, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and The Muppets. Former England footballer Wayne Rooney described the performance as "crap" and stated that the "best part was when it ended."