Argentina lost to Spain in the final of the 2026 FIFA North America World Cup, failing to secure back-to-back titles. The team, which struggled throughout the match, displayed violent behavior on the field after the defeat, drawing criticism from soccer fans worldwide.
On July 20, Argentina faced Spain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where they lost 1-0 after extra time.
Argentina aimed to become the third team in history to win consecutive World Cups, following Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962), but ended up as runners-up.
Throughout the match, Argentina, the defending champions, struggled significantly, failing to record a single shot on goal during the 90 minutes as they focused on defending against Spain's relentless attacks.
As the match progressed, the players' composure deteriorated. In stoppage time, midfielder Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card for a reckless tackle on Spain's Pau Cubarsi, leading to his ejection. Fernández reacted angrily by kicking a broadcast microphone as he left the field.
With a numerical disadvantage, Argentina conceded a heartbreaking goal to Spain's Ferran Torres in the final minute of extra time.
After the final whistle, tensions escalated. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes, unable to accept the loss, charged toward the celebrating Spanish team, instigating a brawl. He grabbed Eric Garcia by the neck and threw punches at Pablo Gavi, knocking him to the ground.
The field quickly descended into chaos as players and coaching staff from both teams clashed. The referee issued a direct red card to Paredes for his violent actions, despite the match having concluded.
Alan Shearer, a commentator for BBC, criticized Paredes' behavior, stating, "Paredes threw two or three strong punches at someone's face. Such actions are unacceptable in any situation. I understand how painful the loss is, but there are standards to uphold. Argentina's reaction after the final whistle was appalling."
Meanwhile, Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged Spain's superiority after the match, saying, "We must be gracious in both victory and defeat. We showed how to accept a loss. We lost the match, and we acknowledge that. However, that does not mean we will forget everything we have accomplished so far."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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