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Spain defender Aymeric Laporte has criticized the physical approach adopted by Argentina in their World Cup semi-final victory over England, ahead of Sunday's final against the same opponents at New York New Jersey Stadium.
"It's the referee's job to keep a handle on these things so the situation doesn't get out of hand. If one or two players are allowed to act that way, the match descends into chaos."
Laporte, 32, added: "I'm not at all worried about aggression within the context of football. If it's within the rules and the referee does their job, I have no problem with it. It is true, however, that in recent matches we've seen things that really surprised us - actions that were allowed to slide. Especially with Argentina. They're a team that likes to leave a mark on their opponents. That sort of thing shouldn't be allowed in football - particularly in major competitions - because it can unsettle you and make you angry."
The former Manchester City player highlighted specific incidents, including Enzo Fernandez's forceful challenge on Elliot Anderson from behind in the opening minutes, and noted that England fans were convinced Lionel Messi's winning goal should have been disallowed for a foul on Djed Spence.
The match will be a rematch of the last-16 tie in Atlanta on July 7, where Argentina won 3-2 after coming back from 2-0 down.
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