Nathaniel Bassey Hails Spain, Criticises Argentina’s Approach In World Cup Final

Gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey has congratulated Spain on winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while criticising Argentina’s approach during the final, saying the South Americans spent more time engaging in theatrics than playing football.

In a post on his official X page after Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory, Bassey said he had expected a more evenly contested encounter but felt Argentina failed to match Spain’s footballing quality.

“Congrats Spain. I expected a more balanced game tonight. But unfortunately, Argentina came to quarrel on the pitch than play football. They spent more time on intrigues, pushing, kicking, yelling, dramatizing and as result ceded ground to Spain,” he wrote.

The singer praised Spain’s overall performance, describing the European champions as technically gifted, tactically disciplined and dominant throughout the contest.

“They were more melodramatic and theatrical than I’ve known them to be. And while they were busy with mischief, Spain was controlling the game. Take nothing away from Spain though, SOLID team. My view of them remains the same. Technically sound. Tactically astute. They were disciplined. Compact in defense, fluid and assertive in midfield,” he said.

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Bassey also commended Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for keeping his side in the match with a string of outstanding saves, noting that Spain were not as clinical in the final third largely because of the shot-stopper’s brilliance.

He added that Spain’s dominance eventually paid off after Argentina were reduced to 10 men following a red card.

“As I predicted and was expected, Argentina’s red card came. And rightly so. But they weathered the storm till the second half of extra time. Spain’s goal became the sting in their tail, forcing them to come to do what they should have done all along. But by this time, it was all over!” he stated.

Despite the defeat, Bassey paid tribute to Argentina captain Lionel Messi, insisting the football icon’s legacy remained intact.

“To my football hero, Messi – you lost but also, not really lost. As the little baby you once carried, Yamal, has carried the cup.”

He ended his post on a light-hearted note, writing: “And to the Amalekites, Jebusites, Ammorites, Hivittes, Phillistines and etc that wished Messi’s downfall, I forgive you all. Bless you guys. It was a great World Cup.”