Nicolas Otamendi accused Spain captain Rodri of successfully influencing the referee in Argentina's World Cup final defeat. The reigning champions lost 1-0 to Spain, with Ferran Torres scoring the winner in extra time after Enzo Fernandez was sent off in injury time for a second yellow card.
Post-match confrontation
Several players from both sides were involved in a brawl after the full-time whistle. Nahuel Molina struck Rodri, and Leandro Paredes threw punches toward Spain players. Otamendi and Rodri had a heated exchange, with Otamendi saying, 'You were crying all week [about the refereeing at the World Cup]. You and Laporte, both of you. That’s not right, you were crying with the referees, my friend.'
Spain's perspective
Spain defender Aymeric Laporte had discussed officiating before the final, saying his teammates were 'greatly surprised' by some decisions during Argentina's run. He told Marca: 'It’s true that in recent matches we’ve seen things that have surprised us greatly, actions that are allowed to go unpunished. Especially against Argentina, a team that leaves a lot of marks.'
Spain's victory
Luis de la Fuente's Spain won their first World Cup since 2010. 'So much pride,' he said. 'Pride for this generation of footballers that have been growing with this idea, staying loyal to the idea, and doing their best. They are an example of a team, a group, a family, and a collective of great players that have been exceptional.'
