Laporte warns Spain against Argentina’s physical tactics in World Cup final
The Spanish defender has criticised the reigning world champions’ aggressive approach, raising questions over officiating as the two sides prepare for Sunday’s showpiece in New York.
Spain defender Aymeric Laporte has accused Argentina of employing excessive physicality, warning that such tactics must not be tolerated in Sunday’s World Cup final. The European champions face the reigning world holders at New York New Jersey Stadium, with Laporte singling out the South American side’s recent conduct.
The 32-year-old former Manchester City player stated that Argentina is a team that "likes to leave a mark on their opponents". He argued that allowing such actions to go unpunished in major competitions can unsettle players and cause matches to descend into chaos.
These concerns follow Argentina’s physical semi-final victory over England, which featured 15 fouls and two late goals in a 2-1 win. Enzo Fernandez escaped punishment for a forceful challenge on Elliot Anderson, while England supporters contested Lionel Messi’s involvement in the winning goal. Argentina also faced allegations of favourable officiating from Egypt after overturning a two-goal deficit to win in the 92nd minute during the last 16 in Atlanta on 7 July.
Despite Laporte’s remarks, Spain’s leadership has adopted a highly diplomatic tone. The match carries significant historical weight, with Argentina seeking to become the first team since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to win consecutive men’s World Cups. Spain is simultaneously aiming to secure its first global title since 2010, making the referee’s management of the game’s physical stakes crucial for both sides.
Captain Rodri echoed this restraint, stating that Spain must ignore potential provocations and focus on their own game. De la Fuente also confirmed that teenage winger Lamine Yamal is fit for the final after missing a training session. The Spanish boss insisted that talent and good football will ultimately rule the match.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni avoided discussing his team’s tactics during his pre-match briefing. Instead, he highlighted his personal friendship with De la Fuente, which dates back to 2017. He noted that both squads share similar possession-based patterns of play and expressed hope for a great show.
