World Cup final: Spain coach, De la Fuente expresses concerns over FIFA’s selection of referee

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has expressed concerns over FIFA’s selection of the referee ahead of the World Cup final on Sunday.

It was announced earlier this week that Slovenia’s Slavko Vinčić would officiate the highly anticipated match between Argentina and Spain.

The 46-year-old previously oversaw La Albiceleste’s notable 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in Qatar four years ago, during which he made several controversial decisions that favoured the underdogs, resulting in a historic victory.

De la Fuente said he hopes Vinčić will be aware of Argentina’s tendency for gamesmanship.

Throughout the tournament, Lionel Scaloni’s team has faced accusations of employing dubious tactics to gain favour with referees. They have also been criticised for benefiting from a favourable draw that has minimised their travel and spared them the harsh conditions many other teams have had to endure.

“The referee must not remain passive and allow the rules to be violated,” Spain’s head coach stated in an interview with Sport.

“Those boundaries of football legality must not be crossed. I have complete confidence in the referees, but I also firmly believe that we understand the nature of the match we need to prepare for.”

England and Egypt, in particular, found it challenging to maintain composure amid significant provocation, and De la Fuente acknowledged that it is essential for Spain to keep a level head and concentrate on the footballing principles that have led them to this moment of potential triumph.

He remarked:

“They will play their style of football, but we must concentrate solely on our own, on enhancing our approach and refining it.

“If we deviate from our philosophy and our model, we will encounter difficulties.

“We are comfortable in the football environment, in the game, in adhering to our principles, and in resisting provocations.”