FIFA Launches Probe into Argentina’s Post-Final Clashes at World Cup
Akpo ESCO
FIFA has opened a formal investigation into the chaotic scenes that marred the end of the World Cup final, after Argentina players and staff clashed with Spain following Spain’s 1-0 victory at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
The world football body confirmed its disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to review the incidents that occurred after the final whistle.
As Spain’s players celebrated their World Cup triumph, tensions flared between both camps.
Footage showed Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appearing to strike Spain midfielder Rodri as he ran onto the pitch from the dugout. That sparked a wider confrontation.
Leandro Paredes was seen jabbing Eric Garcia in the throat, while unused substitute Gavi was pushed to the ground by Thiago Almada. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also involved, appearing to grab Garcia around the neck and later making contact with Dani Olmo.
Referee Slavko Vincic was initially reported to have sent off Paredes during the melee, but FIFA has since confirmed no card was recorded and no action was taken on the pitch.
Argentina already finished the game with 10 men after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow in stoppage time.
Pundits condemned the scenes. Former England striker Alan Shearer called it “terrible” and said “there is no place for that,” while ex-goalkeeper Joe Hart described the behaviour as disgusting.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni tried to calm players and later said: _“We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat. Today, we are showing that we know how to lose.”
What FIFA Will Investigate
This is not Argentina’s first brush with FIFA discipline in this tournament. The AFA is already under review for a banner supporting Argentina’s claim to the Falkland Islands displayed after the 2-1 semi-final win over England.
Under Article 13 of FIFA’s disciplinary code, the prosecutor will examine whether players and officials engaged in “offensive behaviour” and conduct that “brings the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute.” The probe will consider both aggravating and mitigating factors and can result in global bans.
Possible outcomes include suspensions for individual players and staff, and fines for the Argentine Football Association, AFA.
FIFA has previously used the same process to ban former Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales for three years after the 2023 Women’s World Cup final, and to hand Luis Suarez a four-month ban for biting at the 2014 World Cup. Bans of that length are considered unlikely for those involved this time.
FIFA says the investigation will now assess all available footage and reports before deciding on sanctions.
