Laporte Warns of Argentina’s Physicality Ahead of World Cup Final

Spain defender Aymeric Laporte has voiced concerns over Argentina’s physical approach to football, stating that the South American giants “like to leave a mark on their opponents” and that such tactics “shouldn’t be allowed in football.” His comments come as European champions Spain prepare to face reigning world champions Argentina in what is anticipated to be a fiercely contested World Cup final on Sunday.

The World Cup final is set to take place at New York New Jersey Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 BST. Argentina’s path to the final has included several matches where their physical intensity has been a notable feature. In their semi-final victory against England, which ended 2-1 with two late goals, Argentina committed 15 fouls. Incidents during that match, including a challenge by Enzo Fernandez that some felt warranted a caution, and a potential foul by Lionel Messi in the build-up to the winning goal, have drawn attention.

Por que importa

Laporte, who previously played for Manchester City, emphasized the role of the referee in managing player conduct. “It’s the referee’s job to keep a handle on these things so the situation doesn’t get out of hand,” Laporte told Spanish sports newspaper Marca. “If one or two players are allowed to act that way, the match descends into chaos.”

He clarified that his issue is not with legitimate aggression within the rules of the game. “I’m not at all worried about aggression within the context of football. If it’s within the rules and the referee does their job, I have no problem with it,” Laporte stated. However, he expressed surprise at actions seen in recent matches that he felt were overlooked. “It is true, however, that in recent matches we’ve seen things that really surprised us – actions that were allowed to slide. Especially with Argentina. They’re a team that likes to leave a mark on their opponents. That sort of thing shouldn’t be allowed in football – particularly in major competitions – because it can unsettle you and make you angry.”

Contexto

This sentiment echoes past accusations of favouritism towards Argentina. Following their last-16 victory over Egypt, where Argentina came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 with a 92nd-minute winner, Egypt had alleged bias in favour of Argentina and their star player Lionel Messi.

Key facts

Despite Laporte’s public comments, Spain’s management has adopted a more diplomatic stance. Head coach Luis de la Fuente expressed admiration for Argentina as world champions and focused on the spectacle of the final. “On Sunday we will watch a great show, two great national teams, very similar in some aspects in terms of attitudes and talent,” he commented. “I think it is going to be an amazing final, each team will try and take the game to their own side.”

Captain Rodri also offered a measured response. “We will see how game plays out. I like to think [Argentina] are a team that gives their utmost and they don’t go down that road. But if we enter such a stage of the game we have to ignore that and play our game so we do not get into provocations.” De la Fuente confirmed that teenage winger Lamine Yamal is fit to play after missing some training sessions.

Argentina, seeking to become the first team since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to win back-to-back men’s World Cups, saw their coach Lionel Scaloni discuss his personal friendship with De la Fuente, but not their respective playing styles. Scaloni acknowledged they have similar patterns of play focused on ball possession and expressed hope for a great show.

The World Cup final presents a significant opportunity for Spain to secure their first world title since 2010, while Argentina aims to solidify their legacy with a second consecutive World Cup triumph. The tactical approach and the referee’s ability to manage the game’s intensity will likely be crucial factors in determining the outcome.

Source: BBC Sport Football, https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cj63e8l0kjjo