Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, sparked plenty of reaction across the football world, with some former stars appearing to take particular satisfaction in seeing Lionel Scaloni's side fall short.

The loudest response came from former Chile captain Claudio Bravo, who posted a brief but pointed message on social media: "Football won."

The remark quickly went viral, with many fans interpreting it as a dig at Argentina's pragmatic style of play throughout the tournament and the fierce rivalry that has existed between Chile and Argentina since their heated Copa América battles in 2015 and 2016.

Former Germany midfielder Toni Kroos, who helped Germany defeat Lionel Messi's Argentina in the 2014 World Cup final, echoed Bravo's sentiments with the same message: "Football won."

Watch moment Messi and Scaloni cried after losing 2026 World Cup final


His post reignited the long-running football rivalry between German and Argentine supporters, with fans from both nations flooding social media with debates over the final.

In the BBC studio, former England goalkeeper Joe Hart was highly critical of Argentina's behaviour after the final whistle as tempers boiled over in an ugly mass confrontation.

Hart described the scenes as "disgusting," stating that the defeated champions had failed to show the sportsmanship expected on football's biggest stage.

Former England captain Wayne Rooney also condemned Argentina's conduct, with both pundits disappointed by the post-match melee.

Luis de la Fuente's side dominated possession throughout the competition and capped their campaign with a deserved extra-time victory thanks to Ferran Torres' winner after Argentina failed to register a shot during normal time.

Read the tweets below:

Ganó el fútbol 👏🏻

— Claudio Bravo Muñoz (@C1audioBravo) July 19, 2026

Football won

— Toni Kroos (@ToniKroos) July 19, 2026