Argentina's Leandro Paredes grapples with Spain's Gavi after the whistle of the Fifa World Cup final.
Critics blasted Argentina for dirty tactics and poor sportsmanship during their 1-0 loss to Spain, cementing the country's status as World Cup villain that grew throughout the tournament.
But Argentines argue they are just passionate and misunderstood.
"I think we deserve some credit for not being very well-liked, because of this tendency to be arrogant and look down on most people from a pedestal," said Leo Simone, 55, a lawyer, from his home north of Buenos Aires.
"They confuse arrogance with pride," his wife chimed in, preferring not to give her name.
