SportFootballArgentina football teamArgentina were beaten in the World Cup final and provoked the unsavoury scenes after the full-time whistle with their players refusing to acknowledge Spain's victory07:07, 20 Jul 2026Updated 07:07, 20 Jul 2026The Argentinean players refused to even watch Spain lift the World Cup as they stood with their backs to the trophy presentation after defeat.‌Ferran Torres' goal in extra-time decided the final in New York and saw Spain win their second World Cup and underline their status as the best on the planet following their Euros success two years ago.‌Argentina failed to defend the crown they won in 2022 as Lionel Messi missed out on adding another World Cup to his CV. It was an ill-tempered affair that saw Enzo Fernandez sent-off and emotions boil over at the final whistle.‌The South Americans have long been known for having an edge about them and didn't take defeat well. They were pictured standing together by the 18-yard box with their back to the Spanish players as they were presented with the World Cup.Even after losing out, it is normal for the runners-up to at least acknowledge or applaud those who have emerged victorious, but the Argentineans were clearly in no mood for that.Leandro Paredes, who were perhaps lucky to stay on the pitch until the end, was shown a red card for throwing punches at Spanish stars Eric Garcia and Gavi after the full-time whistle. Spanish players raced onto the pitch to celebrate when Argentinian defender Nahuel Molina appeared to punch Rodri in the stomach.‌Messi was left in tears after playing, what could prove to be, his final match for Argentina. He had been crucial in their run to the final but his future is now in doubt at 39, as is that of head coach Lionel Scaloni.He cut an emotional figure and said on his next move: "I will talk to the president. I have an idea of what I would like to do. I will see out my contract and I feel the need, I don't know if something as big can be done. We need to speak this through.Article continues below"I am thankful to the president for bringing me this chance of being in this place where I am at the moment. It was a dream place for everyone. We have tried up until the very last minute to give our utmost, the staff and players. I believe it's only fair that I can take this time for myself to think this through."Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Content cannot be displayed without consentChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Argentina football teamSpain football teamWorld Cup 2026