Argentina could face sanctions after FIFA opened a disciplinary investigation into the post-match confrontation that followed their World Cup final defeat by Spain.
FIFA’s disciplinary committee has appointed a prosecutor from its disciplinary and ethics bodies to examine the incidents at MetLife Stadium after Spain secured a 1-0 victory.
The investigation could result in suspensions for players or officials involved in the confrontation, while the Argentine Football Association (AFA) could also be fined.
Argentina players Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes and Thiago Almada, as well as assistant coach Roberto Ayala, appeared to be involved in the altercations with members of the Spanish team.
The incident began shortly after the final whistle, when Spain midfielder Rodri, who had been substituted during extra time, returned to the pitch to celebrate with his teammates.
Rodri appeared to be struck by Molina as he moved past the Argentine defender, triggering a confrontation. Spain defender Eric Garcia then became involved, before Paredes appeared to make contact with Garcia around the throat.
Further clashes followed, with Almada and Paredes appearing to push substitute Gavi to the ground, while Ayala was also seen involved in the confrontation.
FIFA later clarified that Paredes had not been sent off during the incident, despite an erroneous report on the organisation’s commentator information system suggesting referee Slavko Vincic had shown him a red card.
Paredes’ supposed dismissal was subsequently removed, and FIFA confirmed that no disciplinary action had been taken against him during the match. Argentina had already been reduced to 10 men after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card in stoppage time.
The prosecutor will now assess whether the conduct breached FIFA’s disciplinary code, including provisions covering offensive behaviour, fair play and actions capable of bringing football or FIFA into disrepute.
Any punishment could range from fines to suspensions, with FIFA having the authority to impose bans that apply globally.
Argentina’s recent disciplinary record could also come under scrutiny. The AFA was fined after the 2022 World Cup final following controversial celebrations after victory over France, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was later suspended for offensive behaviour during World Cup qualifying matches.
The association is also already facing potential disciplinary action over a banner displayed by Argentina players after their semi-final victory over England. The banner repeated Argentina’s claim to the Falkland Islands, a message that has previously resulted in sanctions against the AFA.
FIFA has not set a deadline for the latest investigation, meaning the outcome could take some time.
The probe adds another disciplinary issue for Argentina to deal with after a final that ended in controversy both on and off the pitch.
