Argentina like to leave mark on opponents - Laporte

What the report says

BBC Sport reported that Spain defender Aymeric Laporte has criticised Argentina’s physical style before the World Cup final, saying the defending champions are a side that “likes to leave a mark on their opponents.” Spain, the European champions, are due to face Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday at 20:00 BST.

Laporte’s comments followed Argentina’s 2-1 semi-final win over England, a match in which BBC Sport said Argentina committed 15 fouls and scored twice late on. The report highlighted an early challenge by Enzo Fernandez on Elliot Anderson that went unpunished by a card, as well as complaints from England supporters over whether Lionel Messi fouled Djed Spence before Argentina’s winner. Laporte told Marca that referees must prevent matches from becoming chaotic and said some recent incidents involving Argentina had been surprising.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente and captain Rodri were more measured at a news conference in New York. De la Fuente said he admired Argentina, who are champions of South America and the world, and predicted a final shaped by talent and attacking intent. Rodri said Spain should focus on their own game and avoid being drawn into provocation if the match becomes confrontational.

BBC Sport also noted earlier claims from Egypt of bias toward Argentina and Messi after their last-16 meeting. Argentina, managed by Lionel Scaloni, are seeking to become the first men’s team since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to retain the World Cup.