World Cup 2026: Leandro Paredes sent off after shocking final whistle scenes

Leandro Paredes was sent off after the final whistle of the FIFA World Cup final following a heated confrontation with Spain players Eric Garcia and Gavi in the aftermath of Argentina’s defeat.

The Boca Juniors midfielder lost his composure after the match, with the incident overshadowing the closing moments of the tournament.

His dismissal came after an altercation that required intervention from Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni.

Tensions spill over after the final whistle

The World Cup final ended in disappointment for Argentina, but emotions continued to boil over once the match had finished.

Paredes, who had already endured a combative evening on the pitch, became involved in a confrontation shortly after the referee brought the game to an end.

During the match, the midfielder had repeatedly found himself at the centre of physical challenges, committing a series of fouls that tested the referee’s tolerance.

His aggressive style had already attracted attention before events escalated after full-time.

The situation deteriorated rapidly as tempers flared between players from both sides.

Altercation leads to dismissal

Following the final whistle, Paredes became involved in an incident with Spain defender Eric Garcia before also confronting midfielder Gavi.

The confrontation escalated when Paredes punched and choked Eric Garcia before attempting to challenge Gavi while he was on the ground.

The referee responded by showing the Argentina midfielder a red card after the match.

The incident prompted immediate intervention from Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who stepped in as tensions continued to rise between the players.

Paredes’ actions drew attention away from the football itself and instead focused the spotlight on the disciplinary consequences that could follow.

Suspension expected after post-match incident

With the midfielder dismissed after the final whistle, attention is now expected to turn to any disciplinary measures arising from the confrontation.

Given the nature of the incident, a lengthy suspension could follow if football’s disciplinary authorities decide further sanctions are warranted.

The altercation stood in sharp contrast to the sporting spirit expected after a World Cup final and left a disappointing conclusion to Argentina’s campaign.

While the defeat itself was difficult for the players to accept, the events that followed ensured Paredes’ reaction became one of the defining talking points after the match.

The incident also highlighted the importance of maintaining composure in moments of disappointment, with Argentina’s coaching staff forced to intervene as emotions spilled over in the closing moments of the tournament.