Spain's Laporte questions Argentina's World Cup refereeing, hopes for Spanish win

Spain defender Aymeric Laporte has cast doubt on some of the refereeing decisions that have benefited Argentina during their World Cup campaign. Laporte suggested that the Spanish squad noticed "very strange" situations involving Argentina's path to the final.

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In the last few games, we have seen things that have surprised us a lot. Especially with Argentina, they leave many marks.

"In the last few games, we have seen things that have surprised us a lot. Especially with Argentina, they leave many marks," Laporte told Marca, though he avoided making direct accusations of biased officiating. He emphasized that such aggressive play, if not properly controlled by the referee, can lead to chaos. Laporte contrasted this with Spain's approach, stating, "We have been a very noble team in that sense from the beginning of the tournament. We don't hit opponents or make crazy fouls."

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That should not be allowed in football. It is part of the referee's job to control these things so they don't get the upper hand. If one or two players can do it, the game will be out of control.

His comments come as FIFA appointed Slavko Vincic of Slovenia to referee the final. Laporte also addressed the sporting challenge Spain faces against the defending champions, who reached the final after a 2-1 semifinal win over England. Spain secured their spot with a 2-0 victory against France, conceding only one goal in the entire tournament.

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We have been a very noble team in that sense from the beginning of the tournament. We don't hit opponents or make crazy fouls.

A major concern for Spain's defense is Lionel Messi, who has scored eight goals and provided four assists in the competition. Laporte and Pau Cubarsí are tasked with limiting the Argentine captain's influence. Laporte acknowledged Messi's legendary status but expressed hope for a Spanish triumph. "Messi is a lifelong legend. We have all enjoyed him. Now I hope the World Cup is not for him, but for us," he stated, underscoring the need for a collective effort to contain the star player.

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Messi is a lifelong legend. We have all enjoyed him. Now I hope the World Cup is not for him, but for us.