Argentina families ‘detained by police’ after World Cup final chaos in stands | Football | Sport
Several family members of the Argentina players were detained by authorities in the United States following their 1-0 World Cup final defeat to Spain. Unsavoury scenes broke out at the MetLife Stadium after the final whistle, with Argentina star Leandro Paredes receiving a red card for kicking Eric Garcia to the ground and grabbing the Spain defender by the throat.
The tensions were not confined to the pitch either, as they spilled over into the stands where the players’ families had been seated. According to Colombian TV channel Noticias Caracol, police were forced to step in following disturbances in the box occupied by relatives, with ‘at least a dozen people’ connected to players reportedly arrested. The same report indicates that Argentina’s players delayed the trophy presentation, where they were collecting their runner-up medals, as they made their way towards the area where the trouble had erupted.
Thus far, American authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the number of arrests or potential charges, and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has equally remained silent on the reported events.
This represents yet another unsavoury chapter for Argentina, particularly given that officials had reportedly cautioned that any misconduct would be dealt with under the full force of United States law.
On the pitch, Argentina also drew sharp criticism for further displays of poor sportsmanship throughout their World Cup final defeat, resorting to as many as 27 cynical tactics against Spain, none of which proved fruitful.
Enzo Fernandez was shown a red card just before extra time after a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi earned him a second yellow. Spain duly capitalised, with Ferran Torres netting the all-important winner in the 106th minute.
When the final whistle sounded, ugly scenes erupted as Paredes received his marching orders and Nahuel Molina seemed to launch a punch following the conclusion of the match.
Paredes was spotted kicking Eric Garcia to the ground before shoving him backwards with a hand gripping his throat when the Barcelona defender challenged him. He was also embroiled in a fiery confrontation with Gavi.
Subsequently, during the trophy ceremony, Argentina displayed minimal interest in recognising the winners. As Spain’s squad approached the stage to receive their medals from US President Donald Trump, having already assembled a guard of honour for Argentina, the team turned their backs on the champions.
