The Spain-Argentina Rivalry Goes On and On; Dani Olmo Rejects Ayala’s Apology After the Brawl: “You’re Lying”

Newly crowned World Cup champion midfielder Dani Olmo flatly rejected the apology offered by Roberto Ayala, a member of Argentina head coach Scaloni’s staff, following the brawl that broke out at the end of the World Cup final between Spain and the Albiceleste. Television footage captured Ayala striking the Barcelona player in the neck shortly after the match ended.

Ayala had apologized in recent days, explaining that his action was a reaction to something Dani Olmo had said. The Furie Rosse midfielder, in an interview with the Catalan newspaper Diari de Terrassa, responded harshly to the former Napoli and Milan defender. “Anyone who says they’re sorry but justifies a punch by saying it was a reaction to a comment is certainly not sorry, because they’re lying. I didn’t say anything to him, so he doesn’t need to apologize. What truly defines us isn’t the mistake, but the courage to acknowledge it with humility, honesty, and dignity.”

“When my children, my family, and all the fans watch the game, I want them to be proud of how we competed, how we won, and, above all, our conduct, because the importance of soccer means that we players are role models for children and future generations, and that carries a huge responsibility.”

Ayala had this to say: “Of course I’m sorry. Given my position, I can’t allow a feeling—or anything I might receive from the other side—to influence my mood or my actions. We have to draw a line and put this behind us. It was more of a shove than anything else—not a punch, as they’re describing it. It was a reaction to something he said, but nothing more. If I run into him, I’ll obviously apologize in person.”

Argentina faces a wave of suspensions due to the behavior of Ayala and several Argentine players, such as Leandro Paredes, after the final whistle of the championship match in New Jersey.