Luis de la Fuente blasts Argentina's 'intolerable and unacceptable' behaviour

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has publicly condemned the post-match conduct of Argentina’s players and staff following the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The Spanish manager described the scenes that erupted after his side’s 1-0 extra-time victory as intolerable and unacceptable in a series of appearances on Spanish television and the network RMC.

The match, which saw Spain claim their second world title via a goal from substitute Ferran Torres in the 106th minute, concluded in chaotic fashion. The goal, facilitated by a headed knockdown from Nico Williams, secured the victory and extended Spain’s unbeaten international record to 38 matches. Despite the achievement, De la Fuente noted that he remained unaware of the hostility as it unfolded.

Related imagery

"At the time, I didn't realise what was happening because I was celebrating with other people, hugging teammates. In any case, I find it intolerable and unacceptable from players of that caliber, whom I've been praising in the days leading up to the match and who have a fantastic coach."

Luis de la Fuente, Spain head coach, via Spanish television and RMC

Reports detailing the post-match confrontations indicate that several high-profile individuals were involved. Television footage captured Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes confronting Spain defender Eric Garcia, appearing to grab the defender's neck. The situation escalated into a mass confrontation as Argentina players Thiago Almada and Paredes were observed wrestling Gavi to the ground. Additionally, Nahuel Molina appeared to aim a punch towards Rodri as he ran past to join the Spanish celebrations, while Argentina coach and former Valencia defender Roberto Ayala is said to have hit out at Dani Olmo.

The final was a tense affair throughout, marked by the dismissal of Enzo Fernandez, who 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. Despite the post-match aggression, some gestures of reconciliation were observed, including Spain players embracing Lionel Messi and a documented moment where De la Fuente and Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni shared a lengthy hug at midfield.

FIFA Investigation Procedures

In response to the brawl, FIFA has formally appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential violations of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The governing body cited Article 36 in its confirmation that an inquiry is underway. The potential consequences for those involved are significant under Article 14 of the code, which outlines strict penalties for violent conduct:

• Assault: Actions such as punching, elbowing, kicking, biting, or spitting at an opponent result in a minimum three-match suspension.
• Team Conduct: The Argentine Football Association (AFA) faces potential sanctions if it is determined the national team conducted itself improperly.
• Financial Penalties: Players, officials, and associations may be fined in addition to any sporting bans imposed by the Disciplinary Committee.

While FIFA has launched this investigation, the organization has not provided a specific timeline for the release of the prosecutor’s report. De la Fuente has used this period to publicly commend his own squad for maintaining composure during the provocation. I want to highlight our behaviour in the face of that kind of aggression and provocation, he stated, noting that his players acted like true professionals.

For De la Fuente, the victory represents an emotional milestone for the nation. Having spent 52 days in a closed training camp at Las Rozas, he emphasized that the team’s unity was a primary factor in their success. With the tournament concluded, the coach noted he still requires more time to fully process the magnitude of the accomplishment and the joy brought to the Spanish public. Future updates regarding disciplinary outcomes will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the internal investigation is finalized.