Argentina will reportedly reignite hostilities with Spain in just a few months after a nasty clash in the World Cup final. On Sunday, the two countries faced off for the biggest prize in soccer, with Argentina chasing a second consecutive title and Spain chasing its second star. In the end, an extra-time winner courtesy of Ferran Torres saw La Roja lift the iconic golden trophy.
The match was unremarkable, with Spain dominating for most of the match, but they finally broke through in the 116th minute. Argentina were reduced to numbers after Enzo Fernandes was sent off in a moment of madness just before the end of regular time. Emotions further flared as violence erupted on the MetLife Stadium pitch after the final whistle.
Argentina’s midfielder Leandro Paredes was at the center of the melee, punching and kicking his opponents as they celebrated their victory.
Others were dragged in as the situation began to get out of control, but order was restored before medals were awarded and Spain lifted the trophy. FIFA subsequently launched an investigation into the disturbing scenes.
There is persistent bad feeling between the two countries as a result of the post-match violence that could result in penalties for Argentina, and the conflict between the two countries is expected to resume within just a few months.
That’s because they will face off in the rescheduled Finalissima, a one-off clash between the Copa America winners and the reigning European champions.
The match was originally scheduled to be held in March at Qatar’s Lusail Stadium. But that didn’t happen after war broke out in the Middle East.
Several alternative venues were reportedly considered, but contingency plans were not implemented and the match was ultimately called off.
According to ESPN, organizers are in the process of rescheduling the games in December and Lusail Stadium is ready to host them again.
It is claimed that the Qatari government has already obtained the rights to host the matches in its country as per the original plan.
The new dates have not yet been confirmed by UEFA and CONMEBOL, but hints are that they may be announced in due course.
It remains to be seen whether the hostility between Spain and Argentina spills over into the Finalissima, which could be the next addition to their respective trophy cabinets.
