World Cup: ‘He was crying all week’ – Otamendi names Spain’s player that caused Argentina’s defeat

Veteran Argentine defender, Nicolas Otamendi, has blamed Spain’s captain, Rodri, for the South Americans’ defeat in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The former Manchester City defender accused the midfielder of swaying the referee to issue a red card to Enzo Fernandez in the 93rd minute of the game.

Luis de la Fuente’s team thoroughly outperformed La Albiceleste in the final, clinching a 1-0 victory after extra time.

Barcelona’s Ferran Torres netted the only goal of the match in the 106th minute, ensuring Spain’s second title. 

Following the final whistle, both teams engaged in a scuffle. Nahuel Molina hit Rodri, while Leandro Paredes attacked Gavi and Eric Garcia.

A tense confrontation occurred between former Manchester City teammates Nicolas Otamendi and Rodri.

During this exchange, the seasoned Argentine defender accused Rodri and Aymeric Laporte of attempting to influence the referees prior to the match. 

He stated, as reported by Metro, “You were crying all week . You and Laporte, both of you. That’s not appropriate; you were whining to the referees, my friend.”

Before the final, Spain’s defender Laporte criticized the officiating of Argentina’s matches and condemned the Albiceleste for their aggressive style of play. The ex-Manchester City defender remarked, via Metro:

Five players from Argentina received yellow cards against Spain, and Enzo Fernandez was sent off after accumulating two yellow cards.

Luis de la Fuente has now achieved victory in both the UEFA European Championship and the World Cup with La Roja.