Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has launched a scathing assessment of Argentina’s conduct and performances during the closing stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the reigning champions lost sight of the values that made them successful as Spain dethroned them in the final.
Keown’s criticism comes amid mounting scrutiny of Argentina following their dramatic 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final, a match overshadowed by ill-discipline, post-match confrontations and an ongoing FIFA disciplinary investigation.
Speaking during post-match analysis, the former England international argued that Lionel Scaloni’s side allowed frustration to dictate their behaviour after failing to defend their title, suggesting their conduct detracted from what had been another impressive tournament run.
The criticism follows chaotic scenes after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium, where tensions boiled over between players from both teams. FIFA has since opened disciplinary proceedings after incidents involving several Argentina players, including Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes and Enzo Fernández. The investigation is also examining Argentina’s display of a politically charged “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” banner following their semi-final victory over England.
Keown is the latest high-profile football figure to question Argentina’s approach.
Former Germany captain Lothar Matthäus described the Albiceleste as “sore losers” after the final, criticising both their physical approach during the match and their reaction after Spain secured victory. Gary Neville also argued that Argentina relied heavily on Lionel Messi throughout the tournament, although he praised their fighting spirit despite calling their overall display in the final “poor.”
Argentina’s defeat ended their reign as world champions after a campaign that once again showcased their resilience. Lionel Messi inspired another remarkable run to the final, while late comebacks against Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland and England reinforced the mentality that had become a hallmark of Scaloni’s side.
However, the final itself proved a frustrating evening for the defending champions.
Spain controlled possession for long periods before Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time. Argentina were reduced to ten men after Enzo Fernández’s dismissal, and the closing stages descended into controversy as tempers flared between both sets of players.
Despite the criticism, members of the Argentina camp have defended their commitment.
Enzo Fernández insisted the players had represented their country “in the best possible way,” while Lionel Scaloni urged supporters to remain proud of a team that reached successive World Cup finals for the first time in the nation’s history.
FIFA’s investigation is expected to determine whether further sanctions will be imposed on the players involved in the post-match incidents, with potential disciplinary measures also linked to the Falklands/Malvinas banner displayed after Argentina’s semi-final victory over England.
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