FIFA World Cup 2026: De la Fuente condemns post-final brawl, says Argentina players' conduct "cannot be accepted"
Madrid, July 24
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has strongly condemned the post-match clashes that marred the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, calling the behaviour of Argentina's players "unacceptable" after his side lifted the trophy with a dramatic extra-time victory.
Speaking publicly for the first time since the chaotic scenes at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, De la Fuente said there was no place for such incidents in football, even in the aftermath of a high-stakes World Cup final.
"At that moment I was not aware of what had happened, because I was celebrating with the players, but what took place after the end of the match cannot be accepted under any circumstances," De la Fuente told Spanish television, according to Goal.com.
He added, as highlighted by the French network RMC, "What we saw is intolerable and unacceptable. Players of this calibre, led by a great coach, must also have felt bad when they saw those actions. These are scenes unbefitting of football."
Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time to claim their second FIFA World Cup title, with substitute Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute after connecting with Nico Williams' headed knockdown. The triumph also extended Spain's unbeaten international run to a European-record 38 matches.
The final, however, was overshadowed by ugly scenes after the final whistle. Television footage showed Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes confronting Spain defender Eric Garcia before the altercation escalated into a mass confrontation involving players, substitutes and members of both coaching staffs. Paredes appeared to place a hand on Garcia's throat, while Spain midfielder Gavi was also involved as players from both teams exchanged shoves before officials and teammates intervened.
The heated finish followed an intense contest in which Argentina had been reduced to 10 men late in normal time after midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card for a challenge on Pau Cubarsi. Fernandez became the first player to be sent off in a World Cup final since Netherlands defender John Heitinga in the 2010 final, and the dismissal was the first red card in football's showpiece event in 16 years.
In the aftermath of the incident, FIFA appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the post-match brawl, although world football's governing body has not announced a timeline for the completion of its inquiry.
Despite the confrontation, tempers eventually cooled, with several Spain players embracing Argentina captain Lionel Messi after the celebrations, while De la Fuente and Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni shared a lengthy hug at midfield before leaving the pitch.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's a high-pressure match, tempers flare. But we expect better from world-class players. The red card changed the game, and frustration boiled over. Still, no excuse for violence. Let FIFA handle it properly.
What a match, though! Spain played brilliantly, and Ferran Torres scoring the winner was poetic. But this brawl ruins the moment. In India, we see a lot of passion in cricket too, but physical fights? No way. Sportsmanship first.
I'm glad both coaches hugged it out later. De la Fuente and Scaloni showed class. The players should follow their lead. Also, Messi embracing Spain players? That's the spirit we need. Hopefully FIFA's inquiry brings accountability.
Respect to De la Fuente for speaking out publicly. It sets a good example. But I think both sides need to be investigated - Spain players weren't innocent angels either in the scuffle. Let's not be one-sided.
This is why football is beautiful but also ugly at times. The passion is real. But as De la Fuente said, some lines shouldn't be crossed. Paredes needs to face consequences. India's love for football is growing, and we don't want this kind of example for young fans.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.