NEW DELHI: Argentina’s World Cup final loss to Spain could have further ramifications, with FIFA launching an investigation into the post-match brawl 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 the celebrations were overshadowed by heated confrontations between players from both teams after the final whistle.
Hot scenes after: Final of the FIFA World Cup
Several Argentine players were involved in confrontations during the celebrations in Spain. Visuals of the gruesome scenes soon went viral on social media platforms.Leandro Paredes and Thiago Almada were seen grappling with Spain midfielder Gavi on the ground. In another incident, Paredes appeared to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia’s neck.Nahuel Molina also appeared to throw a punch at 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 to Spain defender Aymeric Laporte before the final. Argentina’s assistant coach Roberto Ayala took on Spain’s midfielder Dani Olmo.
What punishment could the Argentine players face?
Under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, players found guilty of violent behavior face a minimum suspension of three matches.The same minimum ban also applies for offenses involving: attacking, elbowing, punching, kicking, biting, spitting, hitting an opponent or any person other than a match official. Any suspension will 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 has behaved improperly. Players and officials can also be fined, while FIFA can impose additional sanctions if necessary.
FIFA confirmed the disciplinary investigation
FIFA announced that it had appointed a prosecutor to investigate the incidents after reviewing match reports.In a statement, FIFA said: “After an examination of the relevant match reports for the final of the FIFA World Cup 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 announced by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor’s report has been completed.”
Argentina is under FIFA scrutiny
The World Cup finalists are now facing another possible disciplinary charge linked to their 2-1 semi-final win over England. After the match, many Argentine players showed a reading of the flag. “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”. The slogan translates to “The Falklands are Argentine.”