Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final was overshadowed by chaotic scenes after the final whistle, with FIFA reportedly set to investigate Argentina’s conduct during and after the match.

Although the contest remained goalless for more than 100 minutes, Spain controlled much of the play before Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute. The strike secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title after a dominant display in which they dictated possession and created the better opportunities.

After the match, Torres reflected on the winning goal by saying it was scored by “47 million people,” referring to the population of Spain.

Tempers boil over after final whistle

The celebrations were followed by a series of confrontations involving players from both teams.

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Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was involved in multiple incidents. During one altercation, he grabbed Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni stepped in. Paredes was also seen bringing down Gavi, shoving the Spain midfielder in the face and appearing to kick a boot towards the 21-year-old.

Another flashpoint involved Argentina defender Nahuel Molina, who appeared to punch a Spanish player in the stomach. Molina was also seen swinging at Spain captain Rodri, prompting the midfielder to confront him immediately.

Argentina's Paredes pushing Spain's Gavi after World Cup final loss
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Argentina’s Paredes pushing Spain’s Gavi after World Cup final loss | X [433]

FIFA reportedly set to investigate

According to a report by Sky News, FIFA is expected to investigate Argentina’s behaviour following the final.

The incidents also drew criticism from former England captain Alan Shearer, who questioned Argentina’s conduct after the defeat.

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“Paredes threw two or three haymakers into someone’s face. He went for them. There is no place or space for that,” Shearer said on the BBC.

“We know how much it means to them and we know how much it hurts to lose, but there is a way to lose. Too many times we have seen that from Argentina. The reaction after the final whistle is terrible,” he added.

What is the debate with the medal ceremony?

Argentina also came under scrutiny during the medal presentation. According to TalkSPORT, the Argentina players appeared to turn their backs as Spain prepared to lift the FIFA World Cup trophy alongside U.S. President Donald Trump.

Former England international Stuart Pearce described what he witnessed during the presentation. “When Spain were about to lift their trophy, the Argentinians, to a man, all stood with their backs to the trophy lift,” Pearce said.

While Spain celebrated a historic World Cup triumph, the post-match confrontations and the scenes during the medal ceremony quickly became a major talking point, with FIFA now reportedly set to examine the events that unfolded after the final whistle.

FAQs

Why is FIFA investigating Argentina after the World Cup final?

FIFA is reportedly set to investigate Argentina’s conduct following post-match clashes and incidents during the medal ceremony after the final against Spain.

What happened after the FIFA World Cup 2026 final?

Several players were involved in heated confrontations after the final whistle, while Argentina also faced criticism over its conduct during Spain’s trophy presentation.