Spanish TV show wants World Cup final against Argentina, citing '13 vs 11' challenge

Following Spain's victory and qualification for the World Cup final, the popular Spanish sports program "El Chiringuito de Jugones" celebrated enthusiastically. However, the discussion quickly turned to their preferred opponent in the final match, with several panelists expressing a desire to face Argentina, albeit with reservations.

Journalist Juanma Rodríguez, a vocal critic of the Argentine team, stated his preference for facing England instead. He argued that a match against Argentina would be significantly more difficult, not just due to the 11 players on the field, but also due to perceived external factors. "If we played against Argentina, it would be against 13: the 11 Argentines, Infantino, and the referee," Rodríguez claimed, suggesting a bias in favor of the South American team.

Fellow panelist Jorge D’Alessandro echoed similar sentiments, hinting at past controversial decisions. Host Josep Pedrerol attempted to moderate, defending the objectivity of Argentine journalist Matías Palacios, who was participating remotely. Despite Pedrerol's defense, Rodríguez insisted that Argentine journalists are often reluctant to criticize their national team, unlike what he perceives as objective reporting from Spain. Another journalist, Edu Aguirre, expressed confidence in Spain's performance, suggesting they could dominate any opponent, but still voiced a preference for a final against Argentina.

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Esto es un deja vú. Otra vez con lo mismo. Y no tengo nada en contra de la Argentina, y quien diga eso está equivocado. No me gusta cómo se muestran en las victorias y en las derrotas.