Laporte hits out at Argentina: ‘They like to leave a mark on opponents’

Aymeric Laporte has lit the fuse before Sunday’s final. The Spain defender claims Argentina “like to leave a mark on their opponents” and that “that sort of thing shouldn’t be allowed in football”. European champions Spain meet the reigning world champions at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday at 20:00 BST — and every word of it will ring painfully true in England.

What Laporte actually said

Laporte accused Argentina of using physicality as a deliberate weapon. Speaking to reporters in New York, the Spain defender said the world champions look to “leave a mark” on opponents and argued that such an approach has no place in the game.

The numbers back the complaint. Argentina committed 15 fouls in their semi-final against England, winning 2-1 with two late goals. Enzo Fernandez set the tone just three minutes into the match with a heavy challenge.

England’s semi-final: how the 2-1 defeat unfolded

England were beaten by an Argentina side that controlled the temperature of the game rather than the ball. The physical approach disrupted England’s rhythm from the opening minutes, and the tie was settled by two goals in the closing stages after a night of stoppages, fouls and fractured play.

For Thomas Tuchel’s squad, it is the familiar English heartbreak with a new accent. A semi-final exit means the wait since 1966 goes on, and the debate at home is already about whether England were beaten tactically, physically, or simply outlasted.

Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham led the line and the midfield in a tournament that promised more. England’s problem was not quality in possession but the inability to impose their game once the match became a series of duels — precisely the terrain Argentina wanted.

Spain vs Argentina: contrasting blueprints

This is a final between two clear football identities. Spain, the European champions, build through possession, short combinations and midfield control. Argentina prefer duels, transitions and ruthless management of the decisive moments — as their late double against England demonstrated.

Kick-off is 20:00 BST on Sunday at New York New Jersey Stadium. Argentina are chasing back-to-back titles; Spain are chasing a second World Cup after their 2010 triumph.

Why Laporte’s comments matter before kick-off

The referee is now under a spotlight of Spain’s making. By raising the issue publicly, Laporte increases the pressure to punish hard challenges early, which would suit Spain’s technical players in tight areas.

There is a risk attached. Argentina have historically responded well to being provoked, and Spain will have to prove they can win the physical contest as well as the possession count if they want the trophy.

FAQ