Lamine Yamal aimed a cheeky dig at Leandro Paredes during Spain’s World Cup victory parade on Tuesday after the Argentina midfielder’s controversial conduct overshadowed the final in New Jersey.An estimated two million supporters packed the streets of Madrid to welcome Spain’s newly crowned world champions following their 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina.As the celebrations gathered pace, Yamal was spotted holding a sign that referenced the ugly scenes involving Paredes after the final whistle.The banner read: “Velada del Ano VII: Paredes vs Gavi” – a joke comparing the confrontation between the pair to Spain’s hugely popular celebrity boxing event, La Velada del Año.The message was a clear nod to the chaotic ending of Sunday’s final, when tempers boiled over after Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner secured Spain’s second World Cup crown.Paredes became one of the central figures in the post-match disorder after clashing with several Spain players.The Boca Juniors midfielder grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat before becoming involved in another altercation with substitute Gavi, sparking a mass confrontation involving players from both teams.FIFA has since opened disciplinary proceedings into the incidents that followed the final whistle.Lamine Yamal aimed a cheeky dig at Leandro Paredes during Spain’s World Cup victory parade on Tuesday after the Argentina midfielder’s controversial conduct overshadowed the final in New Jersey | REUTERSDespite widespread criticism of Argentina’s conduct, midfielder Enzo Fernandez defended the team’s spirit in an emotional message following the defeat.”As time passes, you realize there is something much bigger than a result,” he wrote.”For years, this group has represented our country in the best possible way.”It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning, but about giving everything for the shirt and never giving up. Being part of this group, which has always stood up, competed to the very end, and defended these colors with pride, humility, and commitment, is something I’ll always cherish.”Leandro Paredes was among several players involved in an on-field confrontation following Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner | GETTYFernandez also thanked Argentina supporters for backing the squad throughout the tournament.”I want to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being there, for supporting us in every match, for your affection, for your unconditional support, and for making us feel at home no matter where we are in the world.”Wearing my country’s shirt is the greatest honour of my career, and I will continue to give everything I have every time I’m called upon to defend it.”However, several former England internationals were unimpressed by Argentina’s behaviour after the match.Speaking on the BBC, Micah Richards said: “It’s embarrassing. They were on the cusp every single time.”Seeing that sort of stuff after the game was played, it’s not good, it’s embarrassing to be honest. Paredes is better than that. We all know what it’s like to lose a game but this is not good enough.”Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart added: “Disgusting behaviour. There was one man on that pitch with class and that was Lionel Messi.”Wayne Rooney was equally critical, saying: “It doesn’t surprise me. We’ve seen this from Argentina before. It’s just sad, very poor from them.Spain players celebrate their World Cup final victory at their parade | REUTERS”If you lose a game of football, be graceful. It’s a reaction to them being outplayed. Enzo Fernandez has got what he deserves.”Alan Shearer also felt Spain were deserved winners, adding: “There’s a way to lose. Too many times we’ve seen that reaction from them. They were trying to win free-kicks and their reaction after full time was terrible. The best team won. It’s a result for football because of the way Spain have played.”Away from the controversy, Spain’s celebrations continued after returning home from the United States.Golden Ball winner Rodri led songs on the team bus before the squad flew back to Madrid, where they were greeted by huge crowds lining the streets of the Spanish capital.