A move by Cristiano Ronaldo sparked a heated debate on social media just a few hours after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. The Portuguese star “liked” an Instagram video accusing FIFA of helping Argentina reach the tournament’s final.

The video in question was posted by the account “Espejo Publico” and referred to Argentina’s 2-1 victory over England in the semifinals. Ronaldo’s reaction was immediately noticed by fans, who interpreted it as an indirect comment on the refereeing decisions that marked the "Albiceleste."

Throughout the tournament, there was considerable debate over referee and VAR decisions in Argentina’s matches. Among them was Egypt’s disallowed goal in the Round of 16, as well as other controversial plays that sparked reactions from opponents and fans.

Argentina ultimately failed to win the trophy, losing 1-0 to Spain in the final. After the match, tensions flared between players from both teams, prompting FIFA to launch an investigation into the conduct of the Argentine delegation and to consider imposing penalties or fines on the country’s soccer federation.

For Ronaldo, the World Cup ended in the Round of 16, when Portugal was eliminated by Spain 1-0. The 41-year-old confirmed after the game that this was his final World Cup appearance, leaving the tournament with the conviction that he gave it his all and with a clear conscience.

Cristiano Ronaldo likes an Instagram video accusing FIFA of corruption and alleging that they helped Argentina reach the World Cup final. pic.twitter.com/Lbk1MTlo0R

— Pop Base (@PopBase) July 20, 2026

*photo source: AP