2026 World Cup: Laporte criticizes Argentina's physical play

According to Bbc.

Context

Aymeric Laporte, Spain defender, previously played for Manchester City and has experience playing at a high level. His criticism of Argentina's physical play highlights the importance of respecting the rules at FIFA 2026, where every detail could be decisive.

Why is this important

Argentina's physical performance is a concern ahead of the 2026 World Cup final as it could affect the momentum of the match against Spain. Laporte stresses that referees must control aggression to avoid chaos on the pitch. This is important not only for the final, but also for the general perception of the game at the World Cup.

Key takeaways

• 2026 World Cup: Laporte criticizes Argentina's physical play.
• Aymeric Laporte criticizes Argentina's physical performance ahead of the World Cup final against Spain, highlighting the need to control aggression from referees.
• World Cup 2026: Argentina like to leave mark on opponents - Aymeric Laporte - BBC Sport.

Spain defender Aymeric Laporte has given his thoughts on Argentina's physical performance ahead of the World Cup final in New York this Sunday. Laporte noted that the Argentine team "likes to leave a mark on their opponents" and added that "this should not be allowed in football."

In the final, the Spanish team will meet with the current world champions, the Argentines. The Spanish European champions are preparing for a tough match against a team known for their physical play. In the semi-final against England, Argentina showed a tough style of play, committing 15 fouls and scoring two late goals to help them win 2-1.

Laporte, who previously played for Manchester City, stressed that referees must monitor aggressive play to prevent the match from getting out of hand. "If one or two players are allowed to act this way, the game becomes chaos," he told Spanish newspaper Marca.

The defender added: "I'm not at all against aggression within the rules. If it's within reason and the referee is doing his job, there won't be a problem. However, in recent matches we've seen some actions that have surprised us - especially from Argentina. They're a team that likes to leave a mark on their opponents and that shouldn't happen in big competitions because it can get annoying and irritating."

After the round of 16 match against Egypt, where Argentina came back from 0-2 to 3-2, there were accusations of bias in favor of the Argentines and their star Lionel Messi.

However, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and team captain Rodri chose not to comment on Argentina's tactics at a press conference in New York. "I respect everyone's opinions and I admire Argentina, which is an American and world champion," said de la Fuente, who is aiming to lead Spain to its first world victory since 2010.

Rodri added: "We'll see how the game develops. I prefer to think that Argentina is a team that gives 100% and doesn't resort to such tactics. But if the game takes this turn, we have to ignore the provocations and play according to our plan."

The coach also noted that teenager Lamine Yamal is ready for the final after missing training. He emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, which promises to be exciting. "On Sunday we will see a great spectacle, two great national teams who are very similar in style and talent. I expect it to be a stunning final with each team trying to impose their own game. The referee must maintain the level expected at a World Cup final."Argentina, a three-time world champion, is aiming to become the first team since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to win two men's World Cups in a row. Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni did not comment on his team's tactics at the press conference, but noted that their friendship with de la Fuenta, dating back to 2017 when he was an instructor during Scaloni's training, does not influence their approach to the game. "He knows me as a person, but that doesn't mean he knows what I think about football. We haven't discussed playing styles, but we have similar approaches when it comes to controlling the ball. I hope the game on Sunday will be a real show."

What happens next

Argentina will face Spain in the 2026 World Cup final and it will be interesting to see how the referees react to both teams' physical play. Spain, as the reigning European champions, will be looking to use their skills to counter the aggressive style of the Argentines. The outcome of the match could have a significant impact on the seasonal outlook of both teams.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the score in the Argentina vs Spain match at the 2026 World Cup?

The match has not yet taken place, the final will take place this Sunday.

How did Argentina's physical play affect their performance at the 2026 World Cup?

Argentina showed a tough style of play, committing 15 fouls in the semi-final against England.

What are the current positions of Argentina and Spain in the 2026 World Cup standings?

The current positions of the teams in the table are not indicated, since we are talking about the final of the tournament.

When is Argentina's next match at the 2026 World Cup?

Argentina's next match is the final against Spain this Sunday.

Who criticized Argentina's physical play?

Spain defender Aymeric Laporte criticized Argentina's physical play.

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