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Controversial judge’s decision in FIFA World Cup The 2026 final reignited the debate over alleged favorable calls for Argentina, after Nicolas Tagliafico escaped without a booking for a dangerous challenge on Spanish teenage star Lamina Yamal.The incident occurred in the 29th minute of the title clash when Yamal was caught by Tagliafico as the Spanish winger brought the ball forward. Replays of the challenge quickly went viral, with many fans wondering why the Argentine defender was not booked. Tagliafico appeared to be trying to play the ball a bit, the weight of his body bearing down on Yamal’s leg as the teenager was on the move. Although the challenge did not result in serious injury, the nature of the fight drew a lot of criticism on social media.Several spectators claimed the foul was close to a red card offence, while others felt it was a clear card that should not have been ignored.WATCH:Former Premier League referee Graham Scott also criticized the decision, saying Tagliafico should have been careful with the challenge.“Nicolas Tagliafico could have been booked for a persistent foul on one foul when he brought down Spain’s Lamine Yamal. It was a clumsy and clumsy challenge to say the least, and undeniably intentional,” Scott said, as quoted by The Athletic .
Controversial moments in Argentina return to the biggest stage
The incident immediately brought back memories of previous debates surrounding Argentina’s refereeing decisions during the tournament.With Lionel Messi leading Argentina to yet another World Cup final, every major decision was scrutinized. The defending champions have already come under pressure from critics who have questioned some referee calls during their run to the title clash.However, despite the controversy, the game remained goalless at half-time, with Spain dominating possession and controlling the tempo.Spain, who conceded just one goal before the final, completed twice as many passes as Argentina in the opening period and restricted Messi’s side to a historic low. The three total shots in the first half were the fewest recorded in a World Cup final since 1966, while Argentina failed to register a single try before the break — their first first half without a shot in a World Cup match since 1966.The 0-0 halftime score also marked the ninth goalless first half in World Cup finals history.
Spain and Argentina are fighting for football immortality
Argentina entered the final in search of a fourth World Cup crown and a chance to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend their title.Spain were targeting their second World Cup triumph after success in 2010, while also chasing history as a potential first nation to hold the men’s and women’s World Cup titles simultaneously.
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