Luis de la Fuente Accuses Scaloni’s Argentina of Unfair Play as World Cup Sanctions Rock Spanish Team

The 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain produced massive global fallout following a chaotic post-match melee after the final whistle. With FIFA confirming official disciplinary sanctions for all parties involved, La Roja head coach Luis de la Fuente strongly criticized the behavior of Lionel Scaloni’s squad, insisting that Spain’s players were entirely innocent targets during the altercation.

Moments after Spain secured the world title, several altercations broke out as multiple Argentine players and assistant coach Roberto Ayala confronted and physically shoved Spanish players across the pitch. Following a full review by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, the Argentine Football Association was fined $321,000 for systemic misconduct, accompanied by individual player suspensions.

Beyond the organizational fine, midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match suspension, defender Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-match ban, forward Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala was suspended for three matches. The sole Spain player sanctioned was Gavi, who received a one-match ban alongside a $30,000 fine.

De la Fuente addresses the disciplinary measures

Speaking to Spanish national radio network RNE, De la Fuente made his stance clear regarding the incident: “Football is a fundamental pillar of society, of unity, peace, and harmony. There are other ugly parts which are the ones usually highlighted. They need to be brought to light so that they do not happen again. It is intolerable and unacceptable.“