Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has condemned Argentina’s conduct after the World Cup final, describing the post-match incidents as “intolerable” and “unacceptable” while praising his players for keeping their composure.
Spain secured their second World Cup title with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina on Sunday. However, celebrations at New York New Jersey Stadium were overshadowed by confrontations involving several Argentina players after the final whistle.
Nahuel Molina confronted Spain captain Rodri, while Leandro Paredes clashed with Eric García before also becoming involved in an altercation with Gavi.
De la Fuente said he did not immediately notice the incidents because he was celebrating with his squad.
“At the time, I didn’t realise it. I was celebrating and hugging my players. But in any case, it is intolerable and unacceptable. It cannot be allowed.”
The Spain coach said he still respected Argentina’s players and coaching staff but admitted he was disappointed by their reaction after the match.
“They are great players with a tremendous coach. I praised them before the match and I still do. They must also have felt bad when they saw those reactions.”
De la Fuente reserved special praise for his own players, saying they responded professionally despite what he described as acts of aggression and provocation.
“I want to highlight the exemplary behaviour of our players. They dealt with those acts of aggression and provocations in the best possible way.”
FIFA has opened an investigation into the incidents to determine whether any Argentina players or officials breached the organisation’s disciplinary code. No sanctions have been announced.
