Fifa launches investigation
Fifa has confirmed an investigation into the incidents that occurred following the World Cup final. A disciplinary and ethics prosecutor has been appointed by Fifa‘s disciplinary committee to examine the events after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium. This probe could lead to suspensions for any players or coaches involved in the fracas, and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) may also face a fine.
The altercations involved members of the Argentina team and backroom staff with Spain players as they celebrated their victory. Individuals reportedly involved included Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala.
Post-match confrontations
As the final whistle blew, some Argentina players, including Lionel Messi, slumped to the turf, while others remained motionless as Spain‘s players celebrated. The trouble reportedly began when Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who had been substituted in extra-time, ran past Molina. Molina appeared to punch Rodri on the arm or stomach.
Rodri then confronted Molina, who responded aggressively. Eric Garcia intervened to support his teammate, at which point Paredes became involved, jabbing Garcia in the throat. Unused substitute Gavi attempted to intervene but was forced to the ground by Almada. Paredes then pushed Gavi to the floor by placing his hand in the Spaniard’s face.
Assistant coach Ayala also appeared to hold Garcia around the throat and then seemed to strike Spain midfielder Dani Olmo. Initial reports, including those from broadcasters, suggested that Paredes had been sent off. However, Fifa later confirmed that Paredes‘ red card was removed from the record and no disciplinary action was taken at the time. Enzo Fernandez was the only Argentina player officially dismissed during the match, receiving a second yellow card in second-half stoppage time.
Potential disciplinary actions
The appointment of a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor indicates that Fifa will examine offences beyond just potential violent conduct, suggesting a greater chance of stronger punishment if players or the national association are found guilty. Article 13 of the disciplinary code addresses offensive behaviour and fair play principles, stating that actions could be judged as “violating the basic rules of decent conduct” and “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or Fifa into disrepute.”
The prosecutor has the authority to enforce a global ban, taking into account both aggravating and mitigating circumstances. While it is considered unlikely that Almada, Ayala, Molina, and Paredes will face lengthy bans, the AFA has faced issues with player behaviour in recent years. Following the 2022 World Cup final, Argentina faced charges related to “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play” and “misconduct of players and officials.”
In that instance, no action was taken against individual players. However, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was banned for games in 2024 for ‘offensive behaviour’ in World Cup qualifiers. The AFA is also facing a probable fine at this World Cup for a banner displayed after their semi-final win against England, which read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas.” In 2014, the AFA was fined for a similar banner. There is currently no specified timeline for Fifa‘s prosecutor to conclude the investigation into Argentina‘s conduct.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
Niamh Pendlebury is the Sports Reporter at NewsGB.org, covering tennis, cricket and athletics with seven years of reporting experience. She reported on Team GB and the county circuit. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of Central Lancashire and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Preston, she plays club tennis and follows road running. “The best interviews come from patience, not pressure.”