The Argentina squad appeared to turn their back on the Spain squad as they were presented with the World Cup in New Jersey
13:09, Tue, Jul 28, 2026 Updated: 13:14, Tue, Jul 28, 2026
Lisandro Martinez during an Argentina match
Argentina have been criticised for their behaviour during the World Cup (Image: Getty)
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Argentina defender Lisandro Martinez has explained that the squad were concentrating on thanking their fans while Spain were lifting the World Cup trophy. The team have been criticised for appearing to turn their back on the trophy presentation following the 1-0 loss.
Ferran Torres’ goal in the 106th minute was the difference between the two sides. It came after Argentina were reduced to 10 men just before extra time.
Argentina have been criticised for their approach to games, as well as their behaviour after the final. But Martinez has jumped to defend the actions.
"The image where we appear with our backs to the camera was because we stayed singing with our fans,” he said, via Goal. "It was a show of respect towards the Argentine fans, we couldn’t leave.
“After the final, we greeted all the Spanish players and coaching staff."
Luis de la Fuente lifts the World Cup trophy
Spain beat Argentina in the World Cup final. (Image: Getty)
The incident wasn’t the only one from the final that Argentina have been criticised for, with post-match moments of controversy raising their heads. FIFA continue to investigate the incident involving several Argentina players and members of staff following the full-time whistle after extra-time.
It was originally thought that Leandro Paredes had received a red card for his part in the Melee, but that has not been recorded on the FIFA website. However, Martinez has defended his teammates.
"I have mixed feelings. It makes me a little angry because they have no basis for generating that hatred,” he said.
"They say we're arrogant but maybe it says more about the people who say those things than about us. We have always been respectful to our opponents."
The comments come after Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was sent off in the second half of the final, praised the squad for playing with ‘pride’ and ‘humility’.
"As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result,” he wrote on social media.
“For years, this group has represented us in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up.
“It has been a privilege to be part of a group that always stepped up, competed at the highest level, and defended these colours with pride, humility, and commitment.”
Argentina could find themselves in more hot water with FIFA, with a separate investigation ongoing over their celebrations following the semi-final win over England. Members of the Argentine squad celebrated with a banner that translated to “the Falklands are Argentine”, with FIFA prohibiting any political messages in stadiums.