Spain coach De la Fuente says Argentina’s conduct after World Cup final …

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has condemned the behavior of Argentina players following the 2026 World Cup final, calling the post-match incidents "intolerable and unacceptable" as FIFA initiates a disciplinary probe. The 1-0 extra-time victory for Spain, secured by Ferran Torres’ goal, ended Argentina’s reign as world champions and sparked a wave of controversy over the conduct of players and officials in the aftermath of the match.

The clashes erupted moments after the final whistle, with Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes engaging in a physical altercation with Spain’s Gavi and Eric Garcia. Nahuel Molina was also involved in a separate incident, reportedly aiming a punch at Spain captain Rodri as he exited the pitch. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was later reported to have clashed with Spain’s Dani Olmo, though he described the encounter as a "shove" rather than a punch. De la Fuente, who was celebrating with his team at the time, later expressed his dismay upon reviewing the footage.

"At the time, I didn’t realise it. I was celebrating, hugging teammates," De la Fuente said in a statement to Spanish public broadcaster TVE. "But in any case, it is intolerable, unacceptable, it cannot be allowed. Players of that stature, whom I praised in the days leading up to the match and continue to praise, who are great players with a tremendous coach, surely they must have felt just as bad as we did seeing those reactions."

FIFA has appointed a disciplinary prosecutor to investigate the incidents, citing Article 36 of its Disciplinary Code. The governing body’s statement emphasized that the investigation will examine potential breaches of conduct by players and officials, with further details to be released after the prosecutor’s report is completed. Under FIFA’s rules, players found guilty of violent conduct could face a minimum three-match suspension, while national associations may also face sanctions if improper behavior is confirmed.

De la Fuente praised his own squad for maintaining composure amid the chaos, highlighting their professionalism. "Our players always kept their composure and behaved like true professionals," he said. Spain’s team had previously formed a guard of honor for Argentina as they collected their runner-up medals from U.S. President Donald Trump, but the moment was overshadowed when most of the Argentine players turned their backs on the podium as Rodri lifted the trophy.

The incidents have drawn widespread criticism, with De la Fuente’s remarks reflecting a broader backlash against Argentina’s post-match behavior. The Spanish coach’s comments align with FIFA’s own acknowledgment of the need for an investigation. Meanwhile, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has faced mounting pressure, though it has not yet issued a formal response to the allegations.

The fallout extends beyond the pitch, as a petition demanding Argentina’s exclusion from future World Cups gained over 23 million signatures within days of the final. The campaign, titled "Argentina Out," claims the team’s actions "marred the spirit of the tournament," though FIFA has not commented on the validity of the petition. Argentine President Javier Milei, known for his controversial rhetoric, further inflamed tensions by claiming other nations are "jealous" of Argentina’s success, a statement that drew mixed reactions globally.

Despite the controversy, Spain’s victory marks a historic milestone, with the team becoming only the second side to win the World Cup twice, following their 2010 triumph. The 2026 campaign also saw Spain concede just one goal across eight matches, the fewest by any World Cup-winning team. However, the focus has shifted to the disciplinary process, with FIFA’s investigation set to determine the fate of the players and officials involved in the post-match clashes.

As the dust settles on the tournament, the events in the final hours of the match have cast a shadow over Argentina’s legacy, even as Spain celebrates its second World Cup title. The outcome of FIFA’s probe remains uncertain, but the incident underscores the high stakes and intense emotions that define international football’s most prestigious competition.