Spain’s World Cup final against Argentina shifted under bright lights after Mikel Merino fouled Nicolás Otamendi mid-game. The referee called a foul and ruled out the potential equaliser, giving the opposition the advantage. Merino also hard shot to the face from Lionel Messi, yet stayed on the field while Spain clung to a slim lead with sturdy defending. Critics questioned the team’s tactics through the pivotal moment of the match.