Reason for Bellingham's punch revealed! Twice provoked by Argentine rising star, sought a handshake but was taunted in Spanish

Following the World Cup semifinal, the controversy surrounding England midfielder Jude Bellingham hitting Argentine youngster Valentín Barco on the back of the head drew widespread attention.

On July 16, Beijing time, the well-known Spanish media *AS* revealed the cause of Bellingham's outburst: he was provoked twice by Barco.

In this highly anticipated World Cup semifinal, Argentina overturned a deficit to beat England 2-1, reaching the final for the second straight edition. Due to historical rivalries, the match saw multiple intense clashes between the two sides. The friction between Bellingham and Barco occurred near the end of the game.

The first incident happened after Enzo Fernández scored a stunning goal to level the match for Argentina. Barco, who had not played, rushed out from the substitutes' bench to celebrate the goal—but instead of heading to his own teammates, he ran directly toward the England players' area.

It is reported that Barco celebrated the goal right in front of Bellingham, jumping up in his presence, while his Argentine teammates were celebrating near the corner flag.

The second provocation came after the final whistle. According to *AS*, when Bellingham approached to shake his hand, Barco taunted him with a phrase in Spanish.

Barco naively thought Bellingham would not understand, but having spent three seasons at Real Madrid, Bellingham fully comprehended the Spanish remark, which triggered his physical reaction.

Notably, the Argentine player who stepped in to separate them was Nico Paz, Bellingham's former teammate at Real Madrid. Based on Paz's posture and expression, it was clear he had heard what Barco said and knew his teammate should not have uttered those words, so he quickly tried to defuse the situation and pull both parties apart.

*AS* defended Bellingham: He knew his actions were wrong, but this happened after Barco's two provocations, coupled with Bellingham's disappointment and frustration over missing the final, leading to the post-match clash.

It is reported that Bellingham could face a suspension from FIFA due to his impulsive striking behavior.