World Cup 2026: Spain midfielder says Argentina players should not be punished by FIFA after post-match scuffle - Yahoo Sports

What the report says

Yahoo Sports reported that FIFA is looking into Argentina’s conduct after a post-match confrontation followed Spain’s 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final. According to the report, tensions escalated moments after the final whistle when Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes grabbed Spain defender Eric García by the throat and pushed him down, before also turning toward Spain midfielder Gavi.

Gavi, however, told reporters that he did not believe Argentina players “should be suspended,” according to ESPN as cited by Yahoo. He acknowledged that the incident was not a positive example for children, but said he viewed some level of aggression as part of football. He suggested that, in his view, a red card during the match would have been a more fitting response than further punishment afterward.

Yahoo also reported that Paredes was not the only Argentina figure allegedly involved after the match. Defender Nahuel Molina reportedly confronted Spain captain Rodri, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was said to have had an altercation with Spain’s Dani Olmo. The final had already been physically charged, with Argentina’s Enzo Fernández sent off in the 93rd minute after receiving a second yellow card.

The case matters because FIFA’s decision could shape how post-match misconduct is handled in major finals, especially when incidents occur after play has ended. Yahoo noted that any disciplinary outcome will be determined by FIFA, not by the players involved, despite Gavi’s view that the matter should be left in the past.