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Lisandro Martinez hits back at criticism of Argentina's post-final behavior
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Argentine defender Lisandro Martinez, returning to his hometown of Gualeguay for a hero's welcome after the 2026 World Cup, expressed anger over what he called unjustified criticism of the Albiceleste following their 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in the final. The criticism stemmed from a post-match brawl involving several players, notably Leandro Paredes, and accusations that Argentina's players turned their backs on Spain during the trophy ceremony. Martinez, who left the final injured in the 44th minute, defended his teammates, stating they showed great respect to opponents and that any appearance of turning away was due to acknowledging their own fans. He described the hatred as 'completely unjustified' and suggested the criticism says more about the critics than about Argentina. The article also references coach Lionel Scaloni breaking his silence on the backlash and Spanish player Dani Olmo criticizing Argentina's assistant coach for hitting him.
Source report
Returning to his hometown of Gualeguay in Argentina on Sunday to be honored by fans following the 2026 World Cup, Argentine central defender Lisandro Martinez reflected on the wave of criticism directed at the Albiceleste after the final against Spain. The Manchester United defender says he does not understand the attacks.
A Hero's Welcome Despite Defeat
Although he did not win the World Cup, Martinez led his team to the final of the 2026 tournament. Despite the defeat against Spain (1-0 a.e.t.) a week ago and his injury-enforced exit in the 44th minute, the Manchester United player received a warm welcome upon his return to Gualeguay — the same hometown that produced another world champion, former FC Nantes midfielder Jorge Burruchaga, who was crowned alongside Diego Maradona in 1986.
Criticism Over Post-Match Conduct
While the atmosphere was festive, Martinez agreed to discuss the wave of criticism that followed the final and targeted the Argentines. The reason? The attitude of some players — notably Leandro Paredes — after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium. As a brawl involving many players broke out in the center of the field, Lionel Messi's teammates were also criticized for turning their backs on the Spaniards during the trophy ceremony.
Since then, many Argentines have denounced what they see as an anti-Argentina campaign abroad — a sentiment apparently shared by Martinez.
Related: "A torrent of harsh criticism": Scaloni breaks his silence after the World Cup with Argentina
"We Have Always Shown Great Respect"
"I have mixed feelings. It annoys me because this hatred is completely unjustified," said the 28-year-old, as quoted by Olé. "I see my teammates fighting on the pitch, the fans supporting us and making us feel like we're playing at home. They say we are arrogant, but that might say more about those making those comments than about us. We have always shown great respect towards our opponents."
Regarding his team turning their backs on the Spaniards, Martinez recalled that the Argentine players "greeted all the players and the coaching staff."
He added: "If it seems like we are turning our backs on them, it's because we were looking at our fans who were cheering us on, and it was also a mark of respect towards them."
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Spain Defeats Argentina in 2026 World Cup Final Amid Controversy