World Cup
Ruiz condemns unrest after World Cup final against Argentina
Update: In the aftermath of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, in which Spain triumphed with a single goal after extra time, a chaotic confrontation erupted between players of both nations. Midfielder Fabián Ruiz of Paris Saint‑Germain spoke openly about the incident two months later.
Unrest after the Spanish victory
After the Spanish victory things went badly between players of both countries, and emotions among the Argentinians ran high. A major confrontation broke out with several Spanish players, with Leandro Paredes playing a prominent role.
The midfielder of Paris Saint‑Germain especially regrets the example set for young football fans. “It is a situation that everyone has seen and that nobody wants to see. Young children watch football and we should not present this as an example,” said Ruiz.
Ruiz emphasized that accepting defeat is part of top‑level sport. “You need to know how to win and you need to know how to lose. Nobody enjoys losing, but it was a regrettable moment in a World Cup final,” he said. He hopes that the Spanish world title remains central and not the disturbances.
FIFA imposes sanctions on Argentine players
FIFA decided after the incidents to punish several Argentinians. Leandro Paredes received a ten‑match suspension, Nahuel Molina must miss seven games, and Roberto Ayala, a member of the Argentine technical staff, received a three‑match ban.
Ruiz concluded that football has a role‑model function for both young and old. “We always try to set a good example, because everyone watches football, from young to old. It was a moment that nobody appreciated, but I hope it will be forgotten and that our unforgettable celebration will be remembered,” he said.