After a bizarre coincidence emerged online, fans believe that pop star Rihanna was the reason behind Argentina's loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Rihanna was at the Estadio do Maracana in Rio de Janeiro when the South American giants lost 1-0 to Germany in the final of the 2014 World Cup. She was, however, not present in Qatar's Lusail Stadium when they lifted their third title in 2022 with a 4-2 victory over France on penalties (3-3 after extra time).
She was in attendance at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday (July 19) to watch Spain take on Argentina in the final of the 2026 edition. Substitute Ferran Torres' 106th-minute strike was the only thing that could separate the two sides as La Roja lifted their second FIFA World Cup title.
After the full-time whistle, fans attributed La Albiceleste's loss to Rihanna's presence in the stadium. One fan wrote:
Another remarked:
A supporter claimed:
Another seemed to be irked by the 2022 World Cup final and queried:
A fan hilariously claimed:
With their FIFA World Cup final triumph, Spain extended their unbeaten run in competitive fixtures to 38 (29 wins, nine draws), setting a new record in the process. They broke the record previously set by Roberto Mancini's Italy (37) between 2018 and 2021.
Following a 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, Argentine youngster Nico Paz vowed to bring the trophy back to his nation in the future.
The 21-year-old enjoyed an exceptional 2025-26 campaign with Serie A side Como, bagging 13 goals and eight assists in 40 games. Lionel Scaloni selected him in his squad for the World Cup and many fans expected him to play a crucial role at the tournament.
However, Paz made just two appearances (one start) and was on the pitch for just 71 minutes in total. While many fans and pundits expected him to be disgruntled with his situation, the Real Madrid academy graduate took to Instagram to re-affirm his dedication towards his country's future.
Paz wrote (via GOAL):
Argentina (1930, 1990, 2014, 2026) have joined Germany (1966, 1982, 1986, 2002) in the ignominy of being the only nations to have lost four FIFA World Cup finals.
Quick Links