Argentina reacts to World Cup final defeat and post-match incidents

By Bilal Ahmed — 21 July 2026 — 4 min read

Post-Match Incidents and Player Reactions

Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez stated that the team represented their nation in the “best possible way” during the World Cup, despite a loss to Spain in the final and subsequent altercations. Fernandez received a red card late in normal time after accumulating two yellow cards. His first booking was for dissent towards Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic, and he was later dismissed for a challenge on Pau Cubarsi.

Despite his sending off, Fernandez did not mention the red card in a social media statement. He emphasized that competing involves giving one’s all for the jersey and never giving up, calling it a privilege to be part of a group that defended their colours with pride, humility, and commitment. He also thanked Argentina fans for their unconditional support.

Following Spain’s victory, members of the Argentina team and staff were involved in altercations with Spain players. Fifa’s disciplinary committee has initiated an investigation, appointing a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess the events. Any player or coach involved could face suspension, and the Argentine Football Association may also be fined.

Specific incidents included Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala appearing to be involved. Paredes was seen pushing Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat. Spain’s Gavi attempted to intervene but was forced to the ground by Almada, before Paredes pushed Gavi again. Ayala was also observed holding Garcia and later appearing to strike Dani Olmo.

Former England internationals criticized the actions of the Argentina players. Ex-England captain Alan Shearer stated that there is no place for such behaviour, while former England goalkeeper Joe Hart described it as “disgusting behaviour.”

Manager’s Perspective and Messi’s Future

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni addressed the situation in his post-match interview, stating that the team must be gracious in defeat. He acknowledged the loss and accepted it, while also affirming that it does not diminish their journey to the final.

Speculation has arisen regarding what occurred in the Argentina dressing room before the final, including whether Lionel Messi indicated that it would be his last match for the national side. Footage from Argentine television company RLC Noticias showed Messi urging his teammates to remain calm and focus on playing, telling them to “forget everything else.”

Messi, who was in tears at the end of the match, posted on social media that the pain is immense and will take time to heal, but he holds onto the good memories. Several media outlets in Argentina have suggested that the final could mark the end of an era, with questions about Scaloni’s future as manager and Messi’s potential retirement from international football.

Despite the defeat, thousands of Argentina fans greeted the team with an open-top bus parade through Buenos Aires. Scaloni and 16 of his 26 players returned to the country, receiving a red carpet welcome at Ezeiza International Airport. Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who made 11 saves during the final, was among those who returned, while Messi traveled to Miami, where he plays club football for Inter Miami.

Emiliano Martinez is also considering his international future following the final. The goalkeeper, who won the World Cup four years ago, expressed his pain on Instagram and mentioned reflecting on how to move forward and whether it is time to step aside.

Historical Context and Campaign Highlights

Argentina, winners of the World Cup in 1978, 1986, and 2022, had a strong run in North America, winning their first seven matches. Their victories included games against Algeria, Austria, Jordan, Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, and England before their loss to Spain.

In their match against Egypt, Argentina overcame a 2-0 deficit by scoring three late goals to secure a win. During the semi-final against England, the Three Lions led 1-0 until the 85th minute, when goals from Fernandez and a header from Lautaro Martinez led to a 2-1 victory for Argentina.

Fernandez was part of the Argentina team that won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. His hopes for a second consecutive title were ended by his dismissal in the final, which Spain won 1-0 after extra time, with Ferran Torres’s goal in the 106th minute deciding the match.

Source: bbc.com