A mistake during the World Cup final ceremony forced Argentina defender Nahuel Molina to return to the podium after Donald Trump failed to present him with his runners-up medal.
The 80-year-old US president attended his first match of the North American tournament and was given a leading role in the post-match presentation. Trump watched Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 after extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the goal that decided the final.
His error with Molina quickly attracted attention online, adding another unusual moment to a ceremony already affected by controversy surrounding Argentina’s conduct and Trump’s actions on the stage.
Molina returns after being overlooked
As Argentina’s players collected their silver medals, Trump accidentally missed Molina. The defender was forced to step back towards the presentation area and ask for the medal he had not received.
Supporters immediately reacted on social media, with several users questioning how the mistake had happened during such a carefully organised ceremony.
One fan joked that Molina had to remind Trump personally, while another mocked the defender’s performance by suggesting that even the president had initially refused to give him a medal.
The incident came after Argentina had already faced criticism for its behaviour during Spain’s medal presentation. Several players appeared frustrated following the defeat, and the tense mood continued around the podium.
Trump remains on stage during Spain’s celebration
Trump also drew criticism for staying in the centre of the stage during Spain’s trophy lift.
The scene was similar to his appearance at the previous Club World Cup final, when he remained close to the players instead of moving aside once the presentation had ended.
After handing out medals, Trump stayed near the Spanish squad despite jeers being heard from some areas of the stadium. FIFA president Gianni Infantino then hurried across the podium as the president continued standing at the edge of the group.
Spain captain Rodri eventually lifted the trophy with Trump still nearby, although the players appeared focused on their celebrations and did not allow the interruption to affect the moment.
The president was later guided away from the stage, leaving the newly crowned champions to celebrate with the trophy on their own.
De la Fuente praises Spain’s winning generation
Spain’s victory gave Luis de la Fuente another major international trophy after previously guiding the national team to success at the European Championship.
The coach praised the character, talent and unity of his players, describing them as a generation that had remained loyal to Spain’s footballing identity while continuing to develop it.
De la Fuente said he was proud of a group that had now won every major honour available to them. He also highlighted the close relationship between the players, calling them both an outstanding team and a family.
The Spain manager admitted that his side should have settled the final earlier, particularly after Argentina were reduced to ten men. However, he stressed that World Cup finals often demand patience and resilience, even when one team appears to have the advantage.
Spain eventually found the decisive goal in extra time, securing another world title and completing a historic period of success for De la Fuente and his squad.
