Argentina’s post-World Cup final conduct draws criticism and potential disciplinary action

By Ananya Iyer — 20 July 2026 — 4 min read

Argentina faced scrutiny following their defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, with their behaviour during the post-match medal ceremony and an on-field confrontation attracting widespread criticism. The match, held at the New York New Jersey Stadium, saw Spain secure a 1-0 victory after extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute.

The controversy began after Argentina collected their silver medals. Instead of remaining on the podium to applaud Spain’s trophy presentation, the players moved to the opposite side of the pitch. This action garnered attention as Spain had previously formed a guard of honour and applauded Argentina when they received their runners-up medals.

During the individual awards ceremony, sections of Argentina supporters chanted Lionel Messi’s name as Rodri stepped forward to receive the Golden Ball award for the tournament’s best player. This moment also drew criticism from observers.

Post-Match Altercations and Disciplinary Concerns

Tempers flared shortly after the final whistle, leading to a confrontation between players from both sides. Video footage showed Argentina defender Leandro Paredes appearing to grab Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat before pushing substitute Gavi to the ground when he attempted to intervene. Players and Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni intervened to de-escalate the situation.

Paredes was subsequently shown a red card following the altercation. FIFA has not yet commented on whether further disciplinary action will be taken. According to one report, Nahuel Molina also appeared to clash with Spain captain Rodri, leading to a verbal exchange and physical contact.

Paredes, who had received a booking earlier in the final, reportedly jabbed Garcia in the throat after the Spain defender stood up. He then turned his attention to Gavi, spinning him to the ground and appearing to push into his face while holding him by the bib. Other Spanish teammates intervened, and video footage also reportedly showed Argentina assistant coach Daniel Ayala striking Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.

Argentina could face additional disciplinary proceedings following these incidents. FIFA’s Disciplinary Code states that players sent off for violent conduct will be suspended for “at least three matches.” Misconduct involving assault, such as “elbowing, punching, kicking, biting, spitting at or hitting an opponent,” can result in a suspension of “at least three matches or an appropriate period of time.” Sanctions can also be applied retrospectively.

Both Paredes and Enzo Fernandez, who was sent off in normal time for two bookable offences, will each receive a one-match ban for their red cards, to be applied in Argentina’s next competitive match. However, the severity of Paredes’s actions could lead to an increased punishment beyond the standard three-match ban. Molina could also face sanctions if cited, as he did not receive a card during the match.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) could also face disciplinary action if FIFA finds further instances of misconduct during its investigation. FIFA’s code indicates that if a national team conducts itself improperly, disciplinary measures may be taken against the association concerned. Additionally, Argentina’s post-final actions could be seen as “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or Fifa into disrepute,” potentially leading to further disciplinary measures.

Tournament Performance and Previous Incidents

Broadcaster Adrian Durham, speaking on talkSPORT, strongly condemned Argentina’s conduct, describing it as “no class whatsoever” and an “embarrassment to the game.” He also questioned Argentina’s performances throughout the tournament, suggesting they had a relatively easy group and struggled in knockout matches against teams like Cape Verde and Egypt.

The final itself remained goalless throughout normal time, with Spain controlling possession and creating more chances. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made several saves to deny Spain’s attackers. Enzo Fernandez was sent off in stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card, becoming only the sixth player to be dismissed in a FIFA World Cup final.

This is not the first time Argentina has faced potential disciplinary action during the tournament. Following their semi-final win over England, several Argentina players displayed a banner that read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” which translates to “The Falkland Islands are Argentinian.” FIFA had previously fined the AFA £20,000 in 2014 for a similar incident.

The post-match discussion largely focused on Argentina’s actions after the final whistle, with their conduct during both the on-field confrontation and the medal ceremony becoming a significant talking point following Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com