Argentina players turned their backs on Spain as they lifted the World Cup trophy, sparking outrage and condemnation from pundits and fans alike.
The gesture was seen as a sign of disrespect towards their opponents, who had just secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the World Cup final. Ferran Torres scored the winner in the first half of extra time, securing Spain's first World Cup title.
Photo: metro.co.uk
Former England captain Stuart Pearce was quick to point out the significance of the Argentinians' actions. "When Spain were about to lift their trophy, the Argentinians, to a man, all stood with their back to the trophy lift," he said on talkSPORT. "That probably tells you a great deal, doesn't it?"
Photo: metro.co.uk
Argentina's players had already been involved in a heated confrontation with the Spain squad after the full-time whistle, with defender Nicolas Otamendi accusing captain Rodri of "crying" to match officials during the World Cup. Otamendi was seen telling Rodri, "You were crying all week. You and [Aymeric] Laporte, both of you. That's not right, you were crying with the referees, my friend."
Photo: metro.co.uk
Pundit Adrian Durham was scathing in his assessment of Argentina's conduct, describing them as "a total embarrassment to the game" and "a total disgrace". "They've been absolutely shocking," he said. "They've been a total embarrassment here today. The fans, we think have been brilliant. But even during the trophy lift, also when Rodri went up to get the best player in the tournament trophy, the fans were singing Messi's name and they were singing Argentina as well."
Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina sheds tears as he watches Spain players celebration at the ceremony following the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Maja Hitij – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)”>
Photo: metro.co.uk
Former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville also hit out at Argentina's players, describing midfielder Leandro Paredes as "a disgrace" for his part in the brawl with Spain's Gavi. Paredes was sent off after the full-time whistle for grabbing Gavi by the throat and throwing him to the ground.
Photo: metro.co.uk
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation of Argentina's players, with many calling for them to be ashamed of their behavior. As the World Cup comes to a close, it remains to be seen how Argentina will respond to the criticism of their actions.
Photo: metro.co.uk
Argentina's players had been involved in controversy throughout the tournament, with many feeling that they had been given favorable decisions by the referees. However, their actions during the World Cup final were seen as a new low, even by their own standards.
The incident has also raised questions about the conduct of Argentina's players, and whether they have learned anything from their experiences throughout the tournament. As the team returns to Argentina, they will be facing intense scrutiny and criticism for their behavior.
In a bizarre moment, United States President Donald Trump played a central role in Spain's medal ceremony, handing the World Cup trophy to Rodri. However, the moment was awkward, with Trump appearing unsure of where to stand as Rodri delayed lifting the trophy until he had moved to the edge of the podium next to FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
Source: Metro
