'Football 1 – Criminals 0': British press rounds on Argentina after World Cup final

'Football 1 – Incivil 0': the English press rounds on Argentina after their defeat

The British press on Monday celebrated Spain's victory in the World Cup final with an unusually harsh tone towards the Argentina side. "Football 1 – Incivil 0", ran The Sun's headline, while other outlets such as The Guardian and The Daily Mail took issue with the violent attitude of the Argentine players after the defeat, in particular the incidents between Gavi and Paredes at the end of the match.

However, it is not just a reaction to specific events. The English press carries a long-standing rivalry with Argentina, stoked by the controversial semi-final between the two sides weeks earlier. The Times noted that Spain "dominated the match and deserved the title", while Argentina "once again showed its worst side when it doesn't win".

Beyond the footballing criticism, the media treatment reflects a strand of opinion pointing to a pattern of behaviour by the albiceleste in previous tournaments, such as their matches against the Netherlands and Egypt at the last World Cup. The difference, some analysts point out, is that while Argentina was winning, everything was allowed and their "grit" was celebrated, but when they lose, criticism of their behaviour surfaces.

The English press reaction leaves an image of Argentina that goes beyond sport. Is it simply a settling of scores or confirmation of a recurring problem? What is clear is that Argentina's official narrative, which celebrates heroics and fighting spirit, clashes with the British one, which sees violence and a lack of sportsmanship. With the World Cup over, the debate over the legacy of this Argentina side remains open.