24.07.2026, 17:22 Uhr

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has sharply criticized the behaviour of the Argentina squad after the World Cup final, saying it was "intolerable, unacceptable – it cannot be allowed."

De la Fuente said he did not even notice the mass confrontation after the final whistle because he was celebrating with members of his team following the 1-0 extra-time win on Sunday in New Jersey.

Ad

Argentina's Leandro Paredes grabbed Spain's Gavi by the shirt, struck him in the face with his hand and shoved him to the ground.

He had earlier pushed Eric Garcia. World governing body FIFA has opened an investigation into Argentina's conduct.

De la Fuente told Spanish broadcaster TVE on Friday: "What I do think is worth highlighting is our behaviour, especially in the face of that sort of aggression and provocation.

Ad

"Our players always conducted themselves with dignity, showing the attitude of good sportsmen and great footballers."

Source: Dpa-international.com