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By Ishaan Kapoor — 24 July 2026 — 3 min read

Post-Match Incidents Draw Criticism

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has openly criticised the behaviour of Argentina players following the World Cup final, describing their actions as “intolerable” and “unacceptable.” The incidents occurred immediately after Spain secured their second World Cup title on Sunday.

De la Fuente’s comments came as FIFA initiated an investigation into the confrontations that took place on the field. The world football governing body has assigned a disciplinary prosecutor to review the events, which included physical altercations between players.

During the post-match celebrations at New York New Jersey Stadium, Argentina midfielders Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes were involved in confrontations with Spanish players. Molina reportedly struck Spain captain Rodri in the stomach, while Paredes clashed with Eric García and also confronted Gavi.

De la Fuente acknowledged that he did not witness the incidents firsthand, as he was engaged in celebrations with his team. However, upon reflection, he deemed the behaviour to be beyond acceptable limits for professional athletes. He expressed his belief that players of such high calibre, whom he had previously praised, should have been equally dismayed by their own reactions.

FIFA Investigation Underway

FIFA’s disciplinary prosecutor was tasked on Monday with reporting on the confrontations that followed Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory, which saw them dethrone the defending champions. The investigation aims to determine if any violations of FIFA’s disciplinary code occurred.

Despite the scenes being widely circulated on social media platforms, no immediate sanctions have been imposed on the Argentina players involved. FIFA has not yet provided specific details regarding the scope of its investigation or whether witness statements from Spain’s players and staff will be sought.

The Spanish coach commended his own players for their composure in the face of what he termed “acts of aggression” and “provocations.” He highlighted their ability to maintain professionalism throughout the tense post-match period, suggesting that the situations could have escalated into more serious altercations.

One notable moment of tension occurred when the Spain squad formed a guard of honour for the Argentina players as they approached the podium to receive their medals from US President Donald Trump. Minutes later, as Rodri lifted the trophy, a significant portion of the Argentina squad reportedly turned their backs on the ceremonial moment.

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala also addressed an incident involving Dani Olmo, describing his interaction as a shove rather than a punch. Ayala offered an apology for his part in the confrontation on Wednesday.

FIFA’s disciplinary rules grant a special prosecutor the authority to initiate disciplinary proceedings and propose measures against member associations, clubs, and individuals. The timeline for any potential cases or the application of bans for Argentina players remains unclear, especially since the team does not have competitive fixtures scheduled in the immediate future.

De la Fuente reiterated his stance to Spanish public broadcaster TVE on Thursday, emphasising that such conduct “cannot be allowed.”

Player Conduct and Disciplinary Ramifications

The Spanish coach’s remarks underscored a broader concern about sportsmanship at the highest level of international football. He had previously lauded the Argentina players in the days leading up to the final, acknowledging their talent and the quality of their coaching staff.

The incidents have sparked discussions about player behaviour in high-stakes competitions and the role of governing bodies in maintaining discipline. While the scenes were captured and shared extensively, the official investigation will determine the consequences, if any, for the players involved.

The disciplinary process initiated by FIFA will examine the evidence to ascertain whether the actions of the Argentina players breached established codes of conduct. The outcome of this investigation could set precedents for how similar situations are handled in future international tournaments.

The Spain coach praised his players for their exemplary conduct when confronted with the aggression and provocation, noting their ability to remain calm and professional. This adherence to composure, he suggested, prevented further escalation of the incidents at MetLife Stadium.

The investigation by FIFA is ongoing, with no specific timetable provided for its conclusion or for any potential disciplinary actions against the Argentina players.

Source: theguardian.com