Heated fight breaks out after World Cup final involving Leandro Paredes and Gavi

Spain’s World Cup celebrations were briefly overshadowed by heated scenes immediately after the final whistle as players from both teams became involved in a confrontation on the pitch.

As Spain’s players began celebrating their victory, tensions boiled over between Leandro Paredes and Eric Garcia.

The Argentina midfielder confronted the Spain defender before appearing to grab Eric around the neck, prompting players and staff from both sides to rush in and separate the pair before the situation escalated further.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was among those trying to restore order, pulling Eric Garcia away from the confrontation as teammates attempted to calm everyone involved.

The altercation did not end there.

Spain midfielder Gavi then rushed towards Paredes as tempers continued to flare, seemingly looking to confront the Argentina international himself. Before he could reach him, Thiago Almada stepped in and restrained the Spain midfielder, bringing him to the ground as more players joined the melee.

Even then, Paredes continued trying to get involved, grabbing Gavi’s training bib and attempting to pull him back into the confrontation before teammates and coaching staff finally managed to separate the players.

After several tense moments, the situation eventually calmed down, allowing Spain’s players to continue celebrating their World Cup triumph. Leandro Paredes was sent off afterwards.