No card for Tagliafico! Yamal challenge dominates the Argentina favoritism debate in the World Cup final – Watch | Football News
A controversial referee decision on FIFA World Cup The 2026 final returned to the debate over an alleged favorable call for Argentina, after Nicolas Tagliafico escaped without a booking for a dangerous challenge on Spain teenage star Lamine Yamal.The incident occurred in the 29th minute of the title clash when Tagliafico caught Yamal while the Spanish winger was carrying the ball forward. Replays of the challenge quickly went viral, with many fans questioning why the Argentina defender was not shown a yellow card. Tagliafico made little attempt to play the ball, with his body weight falling on Yamal’s leg as the teenager moved. While the challenge did not result in a serious injury, the nature of the tackle sparked widespread criticism on social media.Many spectators argued that the foul was close to a red-card offence, while others felt it was a clear booking that should not be ignored.WATCH:Former Premier League referee Graham Scott also criticized the decision, saying Tagliafico should have been warned for the challenge.“Nicolas Tagliafico should have received a yellow card for a persistent foul when he brought down Spain’s Lamine Yamal. It was a poor and clumsy challenge to say the least, and undeniably intentional,” said Scott, as reported by The Athletic.
Argentina’s controversial moments are back on the biggest stage
The incident immediately brought back memories of past debates surrounding Argentina’s refereeing decisions during the tournament.With Lionel Messi leading Argentina to another World Cup final, every major decision is scrutinized. The defending champions are under pressure from critics who questioned some of the refereeing calls during their run to the title.However, despite the controversy, the game remained goalless at halftime, 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 held Messi’s side to a historic low. The three total shots in the first half was the fewest recorded in a World Cup final since 1966, while Argentina failed to register a try before the break – their first shotless first half of 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 enters the final chasing a fourth World Cup crown and the chance to become the first country since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the title.Spain are aiming for their second World Cup victory after their success in 2010 and are also chasing history as the potential first nation to simultaneously hold the men’s and women’s World Cup titles.
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