Argentina star punches Spain captain Rodri to spark brawl after World Cup final
Following Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final, a brawl broke out involving Argentine players Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes. The incident included a punch thrown at Spain captain Rodri and physical altercations with midfielder Gavi.
Why it matters
The incident highlights rising tensions in international football and potential disciplinary actions from FIFA against the Argentine players involved.
Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes attacked Spain midfielder Gavi after Argentina’s defeat (EPA)
Argentina defender Nahuel Molina sparked a brawl immediately after the full-time whistle in the World Cup final by punching Spain captain Rodri.
Spain sealed a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday with Ferran Torres scoring the winner in the first half of extra time.
But as Rodri, who was substituted in extra time, ran onto the pitch to celebrate with his Spain teammates following the full-time whistle, Molina was seen throwing a punch to the chest of the Manchester City midfielder.
Rodri immediately stopped and confronted Molina, which then triggered a fight between the two players.
In a separate incident, Molina and his Argentina teammate Leandro Paredes were seen grabbing Spain midfielder Gavi by the neck and throwing him to the floor.
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