FIFA Investigates Post-World Cup Final Clashes Between Argentina and Spain Players

NEW DELHI: Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain could have further consequences, with FIFA launching an investigation into the post-match clashes that broke out after Sunday's final at the New York New Jersey Stadium in New Jersey. Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win their second FIFA World Cup title, but celebrations were overshadowed by heated confrontations between players from both teams after the final whistle.

Heated scenes after the FIFA World Cup final

Several Argentina players were involved in confrontations during Spain's celebrations. The visuals of the ugly scenes soon went viral on the social media platforms. Leandro Paredes and Thiago Almada were seen wrestling Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground. In another incident, Paredes appeared to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia by the neck. Nahuel Molina also appeared to swing a punch towards Spain midfielder Rodri as he ran to celebrate with his teammates. Veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi was involved in a heated exchange with Rodri over comments reportedly made by Spain defender Aymeric Laporte before the final. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala clashed with Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.

What punishment could Argentina players face?

Under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, players found guilty of violent conduct face a minimum three-match suspension. The same minimum ban also applies for offences involving: assault, elbowing, punching, kicking, biting, spitting, hitting an opponent or any person other than a match official. Any suspension would apply when Argentina next plays official matches. Apart from player bans, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) could also face disciplinary action if FIFA concludes that the national team behaved improperly. Players and officials may also be fined, while FIFA can impose additional sanctions if required.

FIFA confirms disciplinary investigation

FIFA announced that it has appointed a prosecutor to examine the incidents after reviewing the match reports. In a statement, FIFA said: "Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents. "Further details will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor's report has been completed."

Argentina already under FIFA scrutiny

The World Cup finalists are already facing another possible disciplinary case linked to their 2-1 semi-final win over England. After that match, several Argentina players displayed a banner reading: "Las Malvinas son Argentinas". The slogan translates to "The Falklands are Argentine."