Leandro Paredes attacks Eric Garcia and Gavi after Argentina lose the 2026 World Cup final to Spain

Spain claimed a 1-0 win over Argentina to win the 2026 World Cup yesterday, adding a second title to their tally.

La Roja controlled the game and stifled Lionel Messi, delivering a masterclass on the international stage.

Argentina threw on Leandro Paredes to seize back control in the second half, but he picked up an early booking, which limited his impact.

His partner in the engine room, Enzo Fernandez, picked up a red card, allowing Spain’s Rodri to boss the game and clinch the win.

Argentina proved to be sore losers as Paredes attacked Eric Garcia after the full-time whistle and then followed up by shoving Gavi, who came to his teammate’s defence.

Paredes picked up a red card and may receive a lengthy ban for his unsportsmanlike behaviour.

La Albiceleste were badly behaved throughout the tournament, committing several needless fouls along their way to the final.

Giuliano Simeone bluntly shoved Marc Cucurella in the back during the game, and there were more instances of Argentina players being overly aggressive. 

They will have to go back to the drawing board. Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni especially needs to rethink this strategy of sitting back and waiting to counter.

Elsewhere, Spain’s Rodri claimed the Golden Ball, somehow pipping Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise and Jude Bellingham to the trophy.

While the Manchester City man was definitely in the conversation, Messi and Mbappe deserved the award ahead of him.

Mbappe claimed the top scorer prize and maintains his lead as the top World Cup scorer of all time after Messi failed to score in the final.

Paul Cubarsi deservedly scooped the Best Young Player award, four years on from when Fernandez won it in 2022, while Unai Simon received the Golden Glove.