Lionel Messi Faces Criticism for World Cup Final Behavior: "Like a Little Kid"

A pivotal moment in the match was the sending off of Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández. Referee Slavko Vinčič issued him a second yellow card, followed by a red, after a foul. The decision immediately sparked protests from the Argentine players.

In the heated atmosphere, Lionel Messi and Marc Cucurella engaged in a brief exchange. When the Spanish defender momentarily covered his mouth, the Argentine captain immediately drew the referees' attention to it. The Inter Miami forward attempted to get his opponent penalized, a move that later drew sharp criticism.

"Football is lost if yellow and red cards are going to be given for that. You shouldn't act like a little kid and try to get someone sent off for it, it's ridiculous," said former Arsenal and England defender Lee Dixon after the match, as quoted by metro.co.uk.

"I didn't like what Lionel Messi did at all. You realize how much Spain is dominating when even Messi resorts to such behavior," added former England goalkeeper Joe Hart.

"It's desperation. But Argentina plays like that. We know it's their style, and the only thing expected of them is sportsmanship," commented legendary striker Wayne Rooney.