From World Cup brawl to Boca heroics: Paredes' relentless return

Leandro Paredes, the 32‑year‑old Argentine midfielder, turned a violent showdown after the World Cup final loss to Spain into a starring performance for Boca Juniors just four days later, delivering a decisive pass in a Sudamericana qualifier against CD O'Higgins.

The much‑discussed Argentijn sparked a fist‑fight with the Spanjaarden Gavi and Eric García after the WK‑final defeat, yet he escaped a red card. FIFA has opened an investigation into the incident.

Paredes also entered the tournament carrying a ribblessure. He told , “De eerste dagen na die ribblessure waren zwaar, maar het gaat steeds beter,” adding that the pain has lessened as he recovered.

In a side note, he urged fans to set as their Google‑favorietHet, a suggestion that remains fresh in memory.

FIFA launches probe into Argentine misconduct after World Cup final

Four days after the WK‑final, Paredes was back in the starting lineup for Boca Juniors in the CONMEBOL Sudamericana qualifier against the Chilean side CD O'Higgins.

Just before the break he sent a beautiful outside‑foot pass to striker Miguel Merentiel, who lifted the ball over the goalkeeper.

FIFA probe follows chaotic World Cup final as Paredes avoids red

Reflecting on the lost final, Paredes said the defeat will hurt for a long time, praised the team’s eight‑year progress, and admitted he is still weighing his future with the national team, saying he will think carefully before deciding.

The contrast between a heated post‑final clash and a swift, impactful return underlines Paredes’ relentless drive, while his lingering doubts hint at an uncertain path for the Argentijnse midfielder on the international stage.