Argentina defends trophy ceremony gesture amid FIFA probe

Argentina's national football team has defended its conduct following a controversial end to its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, with defender Lisandro Martinez stating the squad's decision to turn away from Spain's trophy presentation was a gesture of respect for their own supporters. The incident capped a final in New Jersey on July 19, 2026, marred by on-field confrontations and a red card, which Spain won 1-0 with a 106th-minute goal from Ferran Torres.

The image of the Argentine players standing with their backs to the podium as Spain celebrated its second World Cup title drew widespread criticism, with observers labeling the team sore losers and classless. Martinez, however, offered a different explanation. He said the team was engaged with Argentine fans who were singing to them behind the goal and that leaving would have been disrespectful. The Manchester United defender emphasized that the squad later greeted all Spanish players and coaching staff.

The trophy presentation was not the only source of controversy from the final. The match itself was fractious, with Argentina reduced to 10 men just before extra time after Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second...