Controversy? Argentine players refuse to applaud Spain and turn their backs, sparking outrage: "Shameful, no class."

On July 20, Beijing time, the World Cup came to an end. In the decisive final, Argentina, reduced to ten players, lost to Spain after extra time, failing to retain the championship. Yet, the actions of the Argentine players during the awards ceremony sparked debate.

During the ceremony when Spain lifted the trophy and Rodri received the tournament's Golden Ball (Best Player), the Argentine team not only withheld polite applause for their opponents but also collectively turned their backs, refusing to witness their rivals' moment of glory. Some players broke down in tears, clearly unable to accept the final defeat.

Beyond the awards ceremony, a fierce clash broke out between Argentine and Spanish players after the match. Paredes, in particular, grabbed Eric García by the throat and body-slammed Gavi, earning a straight red card. Meanwhile, 38-year-old veteran Otamendi engaged in a heated argument with Spanish players including Rodri and Oyarzabal.

The Argentine players' conduct drew sharp criticism from foreign media. talkSPORT host Adrian Durham slammed them: "They showed no class, it was embarrassing, absolutely disgraceful. Even during the award ceremony, Argentine fans were still chanting Messi and Argentina's names—they simply cannot accept losing the final."

Durham bluntly called the Argentine team a "disgrace to the World Cup," mocking them: "They drew the easiest group in World Cup history, struggled past Cape Verde in the knockout stage, advanced only because Egypt self-destructed, and benefited from Switzerland's reckless red card. In the semifinal, England dominated but handed them victory, and after reaching the final, they ended up completely losing face."

"There is nothing commendable about the Argentine team. The beautiful game of football was the true winner of this final."