Argentina criticized for turning away when Spain lift World Cup trophy

Argentina criticized for turning away when Spain lift the World Cup trophy as the 2026 final ended in extra time and controversy. Spain beat Argentina 1-0 on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Ferran Torres scoring with a left-footed strike. After FIFA president Gianni Infantino and U.S. President Donald Trump completed the medal presentation, Argentina’s players and coaching staff walked toward the stands, turning their backs on the trophy ceremony. The Spanish press reacted sharply, noting that Spain had provided Argentina’s squad the guard of honor for the silver medals. The final also included multiple dangerous fouls, including a red card for Enzo Fernandez and a direct red for Leandro Paredes after the match.