The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is reportedly considering legal action over what it describes as a coordinated misinformation campaign targeting the national team and its players during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the AFA is exploring the possibility of filing defamation lawsuits against individuals and organisations accused of spreading false claims, manipulated or unverified images, and allegations made without supporting evidence.
Romano revealed that the federation is prepared to take an aggressive legal approach, targeting not only major media organisations but also social media accounts on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and other online outlets.
He added that the AFA’s legal team has already begun compiling evidence, including social media posts and other materials, as part of its investigation.
The move comes in the wake of widespread criticism directed at Argentina following their 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
Argentina, who reached a second consecutive World Cup final after defeating England in the semi-finals, ended the title decider with 10 players after Enzo Fernández was sent off before Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time.
Throughout the tournament, Argentina was the subject of several controversies, with conspiracy theories circulating online alleging that FIFA officials were favouring Lionel Messi and the defending champions.
The speculation intensified after Messi avoided a booking for a strong challenge during Argentina’s opening Group J match against Algeria. Following Egypt’s 3-2 Round of 16 defeat to Argentina, striker Mostafa Ziko alleged that the tournament had been “rigged.”
Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan also claimed that officials wanted Argentina and Messi to remain in the competition for commercial and marketing reasons.
However, FIFA’s Chief Refereeing Officer, Pierluigi Collina, dismissed the accusations and defended the performance of French referee François Letexier.
Argentina also attracted scrutiny after players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas” following their semi-final victory over England, reigniting debate over the disputed Falkland Islands. FIFA has confirmed it is investigating the incident, although no disciplinary measures have been announced.
Tensions escalated further during the World Cup final when Leandro Paredes clashed with Spanish players and pushed Gavi to the ground, drawing additional criticism over Argentina’s conduct.
Meanwhile, Argentine newspaper La Nacion reported that the fallout extended beyond the pitch, with some Argentines in countries including Brazil, Spain, and Germany claiming they faced harassment or insults after the final.
The publication also highlighted a viral video showing a man wearing an Argentina jersey allegedly being assaulted at Madrid’s Sol metro station. However, Spain’s National Police said no formal complaint had been lodged and could not verify when the incident occurred.