Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was shown a red card for his disgusting actions after the 2026 World Cup final.
After 104 matches, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is over and Spain are the champions after a 1-0 win over Argentina.
Following a lacklustre final, a goal from Ferran Torres in the second period of extra time was enough to secure the win at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Despite there being only one goal across 120 minutes, there was still plenty of drama, with Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez was sent off in the final moments of normal time after being shown a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi.
In extra time, Lionel Messi tried to get one back as he demanded Real Madrid’s Marc Cucurella was also sent off for speaking while covering his mouth.
But it wasn’t until after the full-time whistle that another red card was shown, as Argentina’s Paredes was given his marching orders after a disgusting moment that saw him throwing punches at Spain youngster Gavi.
Reacting to the moment on ITV, Gary Neville said: “He’s a disgrace.
“I mean he was lucky not to be sent off during the game. I love the competitiveness of the Argentinians and they deserve great credit for what they’ve done in this tournament. Fighting and scrapping for their lives every game.
“Even today when they were outplayed by a great football side. Messi’s propped them up at times and they’re very competitive and I love that element of them.
“But he’s just been a disgrace the last couple of games and why the referees have allowed him to continue to do what he’s doing.”
Immediately after throwing the punches match referee Slavko Vincic showed no hesitation in taking out his red card and forcing Paredes to leave the pitch.
