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 clashes between players from both teams after the final whistle.
Heated scenes after FIFA World Cup Final
Several Argentina players were involved in clashes during Spain’s celebrations. The visuals of the ugly scenes soon went viral on social media platforms.Leandro Paredes and Thiago Almada were seen wrestling Spanish midfielder Gavi to the ground. In another incident, Paredes appeared to grab Spanish defender Eric Garcia by the neck.Nahuel Molina also appeared to throw a punch at Spanish midfielder Rodri as he ran to celebrate with his teammates.Veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi was involved in a heated exchange with Rodri over comments made by Spain defender Aymeric Laporte ahead of the final. Argentina assistant Roberto Ayala met with Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo.
What punishments could the Argentine players face?
Under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, players convicted of violent conduct face a minimum suspension of three matches.The same minimum ban also applies for offenses involving: assault, tailing, punching, kicking, biting, spitting, hitting an opponent or any person other than a match official. Any suspension will apply when Argentina plays after official matches.In addition to player bans, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) could also face disciplinary action if FIFA concludes that the national team behaved improperly. Players and officials can also be fined, while FIFA can impose additional sanctions if necessary.
FIFA confirms the disciplinary investigation
FIFA announced that it had appointed a prosecutor to look into 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 accordance with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential violations of the FDC regarding post-match incidents.“Further details will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Commission once the prosecutor’s report has been completed.”
Argentina is 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 Argentine players displayed a banner that read: “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”. The slogan translates to “The Falklands are Argentine”.