Tensions boiled over following Spain’s 1-0 win over Argentina in the World Cup final. Moments after the match ended, Argentina’s Leandro Paredes grabbed Spain’s Eric García by the throat. After shoving García to the ground, Paredes turned his attention to Spain’s Gavi. A day later, FIFA announced it would investigate Argentina for its actions following the loss.
But one key Spain player believes Argentina should walk away from the scuffle with no punishment. That would be Gavi, who told reporters he didn’t think Argentina’s players “should be suspended,” per ESPN.
“I realize it doesn’t set a good example for the children, but there’s also that side to football that’s a bit more violent,” Gavi said.
“Perhaps the most logical thing, in my view, would be to send him off during the match and leave it at that, but as I say, at the end of the day I think it’s all part of football and that’s just the way it has to be.”
Paredes wasn’t the only player allegedly involved in the tussle. Argentina defender Nahuel Molina confronted Spain captain Rodri after the contest and Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala got into an altercation with Dani Olmo.
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Physical play defined the World Cup final, with Argentina’s Enzo Fernández being sent off after receiving two yellow cards during the contest. He was sent off in the 93rd minute, deep into the match.
After the game ended, Paredes looked to exact revenge on a handful of Spain players.
Despite Paredes’ actions, Gavi believes any bad blood between both teams should remain in the past. While his argument could hold some weight — especially considering he was involved in the post-match scuffle — it will ultimately be up to FIFA to determine whether Paredes or any other Argentina player or coach deserves to be punished for their actions after the loss.
