FIFA has initiated an investigation into the events that unfolded after Spain’s victory in the World Cup final on Sunday, which could lead to bans for several Argentina players. The probe by football’s global governing body follows multiple incidents, including on-pitch altercations and the display of a political banner.
During the post-match chaos, Nahuel Molina reportedly struck Spain’s captain Rodri. A significant melee also occurred at the halfway line, where Leandro Paredes appeared to grab Eric García by the throat before pushing Gavi to the ground. These incidents contributed to a heated conclusion to the match.
The referee, Slavko Vincic, issued a red card to Paredes following the altercation. Earlier in the game, Enzo Fernández was also sent off towards the end of normal time. Additionally, three other Argentina players and their head coach, Lionel Scaloni, received bookings during the final.
Post-match confrontations and disciplinary actions
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) concerning the post-match incidents. This action follows an assessment of the relevant match reports from the final between Spain and Argentina.
The on-pitch altercations occurred after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time in New Jersey, US. The match, which saw Spain dethrone their South American counterparts, concluded with a multi-player brawl that marred the celebrations of Spain’s second world title.
A viral video captured Spanish player Lamine Yamal on his knees in prayer while multiple fights erupted in the background, showing Argentinian players physically engaging with their Spanish opponents. Argentina defender Leandro Paredes was seen shoving Spain’s Eric Garcia and then pushing substitute Gavi to the ground when he tried to intervene.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni reportedly intervened to separate Paredes from the Spanish players. Despite some players from both sides exchanging greetings, such as a warm embrace between Yamal and Argentine captain Lionel Messi, the overall atmosphere remained tense between the finalists.
As the post-match ceremony was being prepared, Spain’s players formed a guard of honour and applauded the Argentinian players as they walked up to receive their silver medals. However, Argentina did not reciprocate this gesture, reportedly turning their backs on the newly crowned champions during the gold medal and trophy presentation.
Investigation into political banner
In addition to the final’s incidents, FIFA is also investigating Argentina’s conduct following their semi-final victory over England. During their celebrations, Argentinian players displayed a banner that read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” which translates to “The Falklands are Argentinian.”
This banner was reportedly smuggled into the Atlanta Stadium by supporters. FIFA regulations prohibit players or teams from making political statements, and those involved in displaying the banner could face bans.
Defender Lisandro Martinez and unused substitute Giovani Lo Celso were seen holding up the banner after securing a comeback win. This display sparked controversy in the United Kingdom, prompting calls for FIFA to investigate the matter.
FIFA confirmed it had launched a probe into the banner incident as a standard procedure. The independent disciplinary committee is currently evaluating match reports and relevant circumstances to determine any further steps based on the FIFA Disciplinary Code. The global governing body has not yet provided an update on the status of this particular investigation.
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Source: theguardian.com
Arjun Sharma
Sports Reporter