Spain defender, Aymeric Laporte, has accused Argentina of adopting an overly physical style of play ahead of Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, saying the reigning champions “like to leave a mark on their opponents” and that such tactics “shouldn’t be allowed in football.”
Spain and Argentina will meet at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with Spain chasing a second world title and Argentina aiming to retain the trophy they won in Qatar in 2022.
Speaking to Spanish sports newspaper Marca, Laporte questioned Argentina’s approach following their 2-1 semi-final victory over England, a match in which Lionel Scaloni’s side committed 15 fouls and came from behind with two late goals.
“It’s the referee’s job to keep a handle on these things so the situation doesn’t get out of hand,” the former Manchester City defender said.
“If one or two players are allowed to act that way, the match descends into chaos.”
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32-year-old Laporte said he had no issue with physical football played within the laws of the game but argued that some recent incidents involving Argentina had gone unpunished.
“I’m not at all worried about aggression within the context of football. If it’s within the rules and the referee does their job, I have no problem with it.
“It is true, however, that in recent matches we’ve seen things that really surprised us, actions that were allowed to slide.
“Especially with Argentina. They’re a team that likes to leave a mark on their opponents. That sort of thing shouldn’t be allowed in football, particularly in major competitions, because it can unsettle you and make you angry.”
England and Egypt incidents fuel debate
Argentina’s semi-final against England drew scrutiny after midfielder Enzo Fernández appeared to catch Elliot Anderson high with an early challenge but escaped a booking.
England supporters also questioned whether Argentina’s winning goal should have stood, arguing Lionel Messi fouled Djed Spence in the build-up.
Earlier in the tournament, Egypt also alleged Argentina benefited from favourable officiating following their last-16 defeat in Atlanta. Egypt surrendered a 2-0 lead before Argentina scored three late goals, including a winner in stoppage time.
Spain coach plays down controversy
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente declined to criticise Argentina, instead praising the South American champions ahead of the final.
“I respect everybody’s opinions and I would say I have the utmost admiration for [Argentina] who have been the champions of America and the world,” he said.
“I have admiration and further admiration.”
De la Fuente also confirmed teenage winger Lamine Yamal is fit despite missing part of training.
“On Sunday we will watch a great show, two great national teams, very similar in some aspects in terms of attitudes and talent.
“I think it is going to be an amazing final, each team will try and take the game to their own side.
“I believe both Spain and Argentina will have a gameplan where talent and good football will rule over everything else.
“The referee will be there to support us and that the football is at a level expected of a World Cup final.”
Rodri urges focus
Spain captain Rodri also avoided escalating the debate, saying his team would remain focused on its football regardless of Argentina’s approach.
“We will see how game plays out.
“I like to think [Argentina] are a team that gives their utmost and they don’t go down that road.
“But if we enter such a stage of the game we have to ignore that and play our game so we do not get into provocations.”
