Spanish football fans have expressed significant frustration following the release of new footage from the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The video, captured via ‘RefCam’ technology, features referee Slavko Vincic instructing Argentina captain Lionel Messi to “control Paredes” during the second half of the match. This interaction has fueled accusations of bias among supporters who believe the officiating was unfairly lenient toward Argentina.
The 2026 final between Spain and Argentina was marked by intense physicality throughout the 120 minutes of play. Argentina was forced to navigate extra time with only 10 men after Enzo Fernandez received a red card in the 90th minute. However, many critics argue that Leandro Paredes, who entered the match as a substitute for Nicolas Gonzalez in the 46th minute, should also have been dismissed. Paredes was cautioned in the 52nd minute for a challenge on Rodri and went on to commit three additional fouls without receiving a second yellow card.
In separate developments, Lionel Messi recently returned to club action for Inter Miami, though the team suffered a 4-1 defeat against Nashville on Saturday. This loss marks the third consecutive defeat for the club, during which they have conceded nine goals. Following the match, Inter Miami manager Guillermo Hoyos suggested that the squad is still struggling to process the recent passing of Messi’s father. The 63-year-old coach noted the emotional toll on the team during his post-match comments.
Looking ahead, the Inter Miami captain is expected to return to the pitch on Wednesday, August 19. The team is scheduled to face the Philadelphia Union in an away Major League Soccer fixture held in Chester. The report also notes that including the latter side’s show of physicality in 120 minutes, the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina gave rise to a host of talking points. The report also notes that the 63-year-old Argentine tactician commented, hinting his stars are still recovering from the recent death of the father of their club captain Messi.
