World Cup final result 'short,' says former Spain international Pernía

Mariano Pernía, an Argentine-born former player who represented Spain internationally, believes the 1-0 scoreline in the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina was too close. He asserted that Spain, the eventual champions, should have secured a more decisive victory.

“

Obviously, my wish was for Argentina to win because I lived there for 41 years and in Spain for eight. If I had to choose a winner, it was Argentina, but losing to Spain was the least painful defeat. In Spain, I established myself as a footballer and experienced very special things over eight years.

"Obviously, my wish was for Argentina to win because I lived there for 41 years and in Spain for eight," Pernía told EFE. "If I had to choose a winner, it was Argentina, but losing to Spain was the least painful defeat. In Spain, I established myself as a footballer and experienced very special things over eight years."

Pernía, who played for clubs like Atlético Madrid and represented Spain in the 2006 World Cup, also criticized unsportsmanlike behavior exhibited by some Argentinian players following the final whistle. He specifically mentioned Leandro Paredes and Roberto Ayala, stating that such actions are unacceptable when watched by billions.

“

You have to set an example for young people. In life, you have to be healthy and clean. You congratulate, you applaud, and that's it, because they were the best.

"You have to set an example for young people. In life, you have to be healthy and clean. You congratulate, you applaud, and that's it, because they were the best," Pernía summarized. He praised Lionel Messi and Lionel Scaloni for acknowledging Spain's superiority. Pernía concluded by commending Spanish player Marc Cucurella for his consistent competitiveness.

“

The football was fair to Spain, which was the best. And to Argentina, as it could reach the final thanks to Messi's effort. The trophy went to the best team, the one that defended best, had the most ball, and attacked best. There's nothing more to it.