FIFA Investigates Argentina Players And Coach After Final Brawl

FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings following a confrontation involving Argentina players and coaching staff after their World Cup final defeat by Spain, raising the possibility of sanctions against several members of the Argentine camp.

Spain secured their second World Cup title with a 1–0 victory over Argentina in Sunday night’s final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States. The match remained goalless during normal time before Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of extra time.

The celebrations were overshadowed by scenes of disorder after the final whistle. According to footage circulating from the stadium, Argentina’s Nahuel Molina appeared to run towards Spain captain Rodri and strike him in the stomach. A separate confrontation then reportedly broke out in the middle of the pitch.

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was alleged to have grabbed Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before later pushing Gavi to the ground. The incident added to an increasingly heated atmosphere as players and members of both teams became involved in the exchanges.

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also reportedly seen attempting to punch Spain midfielder Dani Olmo. Video footage appeared to show Eric Garcia intervening and using his hand to move Ayala away as the situation threatened to escalate further.

Match referee Slavko Vincic took disciplinary action during the disorder. Paredes was shown a straight red card, while Enzo Fernandez had already been dismissed towards the end of normal time. Three other Argentina players and head coach Lionel Scaloni were also shown yellow cards.

FIFA confirmed that it had appointed an investigator after reviewing the official match report. The investigation is being conducted under Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code and will examine the incidents that occurred after the match, as well as any potential breaches of disciplinary regulations.

The governing body has not identified specific individuals or announced what penalties, if any, could follow. However, the players and officials found responsible could face disciplinary measures depending on the findings of the investigation. Possible sanctions in football disciplinary cases can vary according to the severity of the alleged misconduct.

The post-final confrontation is not the only matter involving Argentina currently under FIFA scrutiny. The governing body is also investigating celebrations by Argentina players following their semi-final victory over England.

During those celebrations, Argentina players reportedly joined supporters in displaying a political banner bearing the message ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’, meaning ‘The Falkland Islands are Argentine’. The issue is politically sensitive because sovereignty over the Falkland Islands remains disputed between Argentina and the United Kingdom.

FIFA regulations prohibit the use of football events and related activities to promote political messages. As a result, individuals found to have breached the relevant regulations could also face disciplinary action.

The investigations come after a tournament in which Argentina’s players and coaching staff were under intense attention both on and off the pitch. With FIFA now examining incidents from the final as well as the semi-final celebrations, the outcome of the proceedings could determine whether any players, coaches or other members of the Argentine delegation receive further punishment.