Spain Beats Argentina 1–0 in World Cup Final as Post-Match Brawl Erupts

Argentina's World Cup campaign ended in controversy after a 1–0 defeat to Spain in the final.

Spain players celebrate their World Cup victory as tensions flare between Spain and Argentina after the final whistle. (Photo: Selección Española de Fútbol (SeFutbol) Facebook

Chaotic scenes unfolded in New Jersey after the final whistle as Spain substitutes ran onto the field to celebrate the victory, Jamie Braidwood reported for The Independent.

Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appeared to swing a punch toward Spain captain Rodri as he ran onto the pitch. A separate confrontation then involved midfielder Leandro Paredes, who was seen pushing Spain defender Eric García by the throat.

Paredes also became involved in an altercation with Gavi, taking the Spain midfielder to the ground and grabbing him by his substitute bib.

Spain's Mikel Oyarzabal and Rodri sprinted onto the field after the final whistle as La Roja celebrated being crowned world champions.

Video footage appeared to show Molina attempting to strike Rodri, prompting the Spain captain to stop and confront the Argentina defender. Molina then squared up to Rodri and made chest-to-chest contact, which became the flashpoint for the wider confrontation.

Eric García intervened, and Paredes then moved toward him, appearing to jab him in the throat. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni approached the group, gesturing for calm and attempting to separate the players.