Spain’s World Cup final against Argentina changed direction in a dramatic showdown after Mikel Merino fouled Nicolás Otamendi mid-game. The official whistled a foul and ruled out what would have been Spain’s equalizer, giving the opposition the advantage. Merino also hard shot to the face from Lionel Messi, yet stayed on the field as Spain held onto a narrow lead with solid defence. Critics questioned the team’s tactics through the pivotal moment of the match.