Argentina assistant coach explains reason behind Dani Olmo 'punch'

Argentina’s assistant coach Roberto Ayala sought to downplay clashes with Spain’s players after the World Cup final, which Spain won 1-0 over Lionel Scaloni’s side following a tense match. Ayala was involved in multiple altercations after incidents during and at the end of the game, including Enzo Fernández being sent off for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsí. Reports within the match described aggressive confrontations involving Argentina players such as Paredes grabbing Eric García by the throat and pushing Gavi down, and Nahuel Molina hitting Rodri in the torso while Spain’s team celebrated. Ayala later faced camera footage of him striking Dani Olmo as Spain lifted the trophy. FIFA has launched an investigation that could lead to consequences for those involved. In a first public response, Ayala apologized and said his contact was “more of a push than anything else,” adding that he intended to separate players and that emotions ran high, while taking responsibility for his behavior.