Scaloni calls Argentina players ‘warriors’ after World Cup final loss to Spain

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni issued an emotional public statement on Sunday defending his players as "warriors" following their 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, pushing back against criticism of the team's conduct and apologizing to fans for failing to defend their title.

"People Who Don't Know Us"

Writing on Instagram more than a week after the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Scaloni addressed what he described as "buckets of cold water from people who don't know us" while praising the character of his squad.espn+1

"All I can say is I'm sorry for not being able to bring you another cup and give you a new source of joy which, even if only for a few days, might help you forget all the ugliness in life," Scaloni wrote. "But I want you to take away what we've tried to show you through this group of players, my warriors — as I used to describe them when I spoke to my wife about them."goal+1

He cited "the effort, the drive, the passion, the 'I can do it' attitude, the refusal to give up" as qualities that represented "the real trophy," and thanked his coaching staff, the Argentine Football Association, and supporters for their affection.espn

FIFA Investigation and Post-Match Clashes

The statement comes amid a FIFA disciplinary investigation into post-match confrontations between Argentina and Spain players on the pitch after the final whistle. FIFA confirmed it appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to examine potential breaches of its disciplinary code. Nahuel Molina allegedly struck Spain midfielder Rodri during the heated scenes, with Gavi, Leandro Paredes, and Eric García also reportedly involved.americanbazaaronline+2

A Spain midfielder has since said Argentina's players should not face punishment over the scuffle.sports.yahoo

Martinez Denies Snubbing Spain

Defender Lisandro Martinez also broke his silence, responding to what he called an "anti-Argentina campaign" and denying that the squad had disrespected Spain during the trophy ceremony. Argentina's players had turned their backs as Spain lifted the World Cup, drawing widespread criticism.worldsoccertalk+1

"We were always very respectful of the opponent," Martinez said. "It was also said that after the final, we hadn't acknowledged Spain. We greeted all the players, all the coaching staff, we were there."worldsoccertalk

Spain had given Argentina a guard of honor as they approached the podium to collect their runners-up medals, a gesture the defeated side did not reciprocate when the trophy was raised.espn