Aymeric Laporte accuses Argentina of tricks that ‘shouldn’t be allowed’ in World Cup final – UK Times

Aymeric Laporte has accused Argentina of dirty tricks and said referees have allowed them to get away with gamesmanship in the World Cup.

And the Spain defender warned the final could descend into chaos if Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic does not clamp down on Argentina.

The defending champions tried a variety of strategies to get under England’s skin in the semi-final, while Egypt manager Hossam Hassan accused officials of favouring Argentina following his side’s 3-2 defeat to them in the last 16.

And Laporte told Marca: “I’m not at all worried about aggression within the context of football. If it’s within the rules and the referee does their job, I have no problem with it. It is true, however, that in recent matches we’ve seen things that really surprised us – actions that were allowed to slide.

“Especially with Argentina; they’re a team that likes to leave a mark on their opponents. That sort of thing shouldn’t be allowed in football – particularly in major competitions – because it can unsettle you and make you angry. It’s the referee’s job to keep a handle on these things so the situation doesn’t get out of hand.

“If one or two players are allowed to act that way, the match descends into chaos. From the start of the tournament, we’ve been a pretty clean team in that regard. We aren’t the type to hit opponents or commit reckless fouls. And I think that’s the approach we need to take in this match. But, of course, a lot will depend on the officiating.”

Rodri has urged his teammates to ignore any of Argentina’s attempts at gamesmanship in the World Cup final and to play their own game.

The midfielder has said it is crucial that Spain do not react if they are provoked, and said he hopes Argentina play within the spirit of the game.

The Spain captain said: “That’s part of the game. We will see how game plays out. I like to think they are a team that gives their utmost and they don’t go down that road, but if we enter such a stage of the game, we have to ignore that and play our game so we do not get into provocations.”