Argentina coach Ayala denies punching Spain's Olmo, promises apology
Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala denied punching Spain's midfielder Dani Olmo after the 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey, saying it was merely a push and that he will apologize in person if they meet. Spain edged Argentina 1-0 in extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring in the 106th minute off a Nico Williams assist. The Albiceleste played the entire extra period with ten men after Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a foul on Pau Cubarsi, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez kept them alive with a record-tying 11 saves in a World Cup final. After the match, tempers flared and members of the Argentina coaching staff clashed with Spain players. Ayala, a former defender who played in three World Cups (1998, 2002, 2006) and last appeared alongside Lionel Scaloni and Lionel Messi in the 2006 quarter-final loss to Germany, told El Partizado de COPE that the incident was blown out of proportion. He said he would seek out Olmo to offer a personal apology. The incident highlights the emotions that still linger after a hard-fought final, reminding fans that even back-room staff can become flashpoints in high-stakes matches. With tensions still raw, will you accept an apology from a rival coach, or does the heat of the moment demand more accountability?