An Argentine player who lost the final punched a member of Spain's bench after the final whistle and was ejected, Chosun Ilbo and United Daily reported. The physical clash after an emotional final drew criticism from figures across football.

The bigger the match staked on honor, the heavier the weight of the result—but violence on or off the pitch cannot be justified on any grounds, a long-standing principle in sport.

Under tournament rules such conduct can lead to further sanction, and the relevant body is expected to review it. Fans, too, voiced disappointment and criticism.

Sinophone Bridge Times notes the values sport must uphold before the drama of victory. When respect for the opponent collapses amid competitive heat, the match's emotion loses its shine too.