"Punched in the face and beaten up" Argentina descends into 'mass brawl' after missing out on title... Messi sheds tears, condemned as "worst losers"

*This content was translated by AI.

In the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain, Argentine players resorted to punching opposing players immediately after the match.

The UK's The Sun reported on the 20th (Korean time) that "Argentine players could not contain their anger over defeat and committed violence on the field, turning the final stage into a scene of chaos."

Argentina drew 0-0 against Spain after 90 minutes in the final held at New York/New Jersey Stadium in the United States, but conceded a late goal to Ferran Torres in the second minute of extra time and lost 0-1.

As a result, Argentina failed to secure its fourth title (1978, 1986, 2022). "Football Emperor" Lionel Messi, whose last dance was thwarted, shed tears he had been holding back after receiving the runner-up medal at the awards ceremony. Meanwhile, Spain lifted the World Cup trophy for the second time in its history, 16 years after winning the 2010 South Africa tournament.

The media explained that "Argentina trailed Spain throughout the 120th-minute match and showed poor form. As soon as the final whistle blew, Argentine players expressed their dissatisfaction through violence. Nahuel Molina was seen throwing punches at a Spanish substitute player who ran onto the field to celebrate the victory."

It further added that "Leandro Paredes also charged at Spanish midfielder Gavi. Paredes threw several hard punches at Gavi's face and slammed him to the ground. Referee Slavko Vinčić immediately showed Paredes a red card for his violent conduct."

It was not just the players who clashed; the coaching staff also got into a confrontation. Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni engaged in a heated argument with Eric García, leading to a standoff. The media reported that "Argentina suffered a complete defeat in terms of sportsmanship as well, with midfielder Enzo Fernández receiving a red card due to accumulated yellow cards for an reckless tackle on Pau Cubarsi during the match."

Football experts and fans alike condemned Argentina's ungentlemanly behavior. English football legend Alan Shearer pointed out after the match that "Paredes charged first and threw punches at Gavi's face. There is no place for violence in a football stadium." He continued, "While I understand the pain of defeat, there are manners to be observed even when losing," strongly criticizing Argentina for its terrible reaction after the final whistle.

According to The Sun, fans also took to social media (SNS) to condemn Argentine players, calling for "severe punishment for Paredes," labeling him a "worst loser," and describing his actions as "a terrible display that lowered the dignity of the final."

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*This content was translated by AI.