FIFA to Investigate Post-Match Violence After World Cup Final

Were Argentina sore losers who deserve disciplinary action or victims of Spain's gamesmanship?

Published JUL 21

FIFA to Investigate Post-Match Violence After World Cup Final

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Above: Leandro Paredes of Argentina gets violent against Gavi of Spain after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final on July 19. Image credit: Marvin Ibo Guengoer/GES Sportfoto/Getty Images

The Spin

Narrative A

After being completely outplayed by Spain, Argentina's behavior after the final whistle was absolutely classless. Not only did they instigate a violent brawl, they turned their backs on Spain as they received their medals and forewent their obligatory media commitments. They ought to be thoroughly punished for their conduct.

Yahoo Sports

Narrative B

While there were isolated, off-field incidents to end the game, Argentine players were right to be frustrated after Spain's players spent the lead-up to the game complaining of the officiating and priming the referee to give them the majority of the calls. This had a direct impact on the game, especially after an Argentina player was wrongly sent off.

Metro Nine