Paredes Sparks Post-Final Brawl After Argentina's 1-0 World Cup Loss to Spain
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 20
Paredes Sparks Post-Final Brawl After Argentina's 1-0 World Cup Loss to Spain
3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 20
Summary
Leandro Paredes was at the center of chaotic scenes in New Jersey, shoving Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat and wrestling 21-year-old Gavi to the ground after Argentina lost the final 1-0.
The scuffles erupted when Nahuel Molina appeared to swing at Spain captain Rodri as substitutes ran on to celebrate, prompting a confrontation that drew in Garcia, Paredes and other players before Lionel Scaloni intervened.
Argentina’s behavior was widely condemned on British broadcasts, with Joe Hart calling it “disgusting” and Gary Neville saying the team’s conduct over recent games had been “a disgrace.”
The ugly finish overshadowed Spain’s deserved title, sealed by Ferran Torres after extra time, and capped an emotional final World Cup appearance for 39-year-old Lionel Messi, who left the pitch in tears.