FIFA has launched an investigation into the post-match altercation that erupted after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the World Cup final, with several players and the Argentine Football Association facing possible disciplinary action.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was shown a red card after the final whistle following clashes involving Spain’s Eric Garcia and Gavi, while teammate Nahuel Molina appeared to swing at Spain captain Rodri during the confrontation.
World football’s governing body confirmed it will review the incidents before determining whether additional sanctions will be imposed. The investigation could also extend to Argentina’s conduct following its semi-final victory over England.
After the semi-final, several Argentina players displayed a banner reading, “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (“The Falkland Islands are Argentinian”), an act that could also come under FIFA’s disciplinary review.
A FIFA spokesperson said the body’s independent Disciplinary Committee is examining the match reports and all relevant circumstances before deciding on any further action under the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
Paredes and Enzo Fernandez, who was sent off during normal time after receiving two yellow cards, are already set to miss Argentina’s next competitive match through suspension.
However, FIFA’s disciplinary regulations stipulate that players dismissed for violent conduct can receive a minimum three-match suspension. The code also allows retrospective punishment for offences such as punching, kicking, biting, spitting or striking an opponent.
If FIFA concludes that Paredes’ actions amounted to violent conduct, his suspension could be extended. Molina could also face retrospective disciplinary action despite escaping punishment during the match.
The Argentine Football Association could also be sanctioned if FIFA determines there was widespread misconduct by the team. Under the disciplinary code, national associations can face penalties if multiple players receive disciplinary sanctions during a match or if their conduct brings football or FIFA into disrepute.
The confrontation began shortly after the final whistle when Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal and Rodri celebrated their victory near Molina. Tensions escalated as Molina appeared to swing at Rodri before players from both sides became involved.
Garcia attempted to calm the situation before Paredes joined the altercation, knocking the Spanish defender to the ground and later appearing to jab him in the throat. Paredes then confronted Gavi before Spain’s players intervened.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was seen trying to restore order, while television footage also appeared to show Argentina assistant coach Daniel Ayala striking Spain midfielder Dani Olmo during the chaos.
The incident brought a controversial end to Argentina’s World Cup campaign and marked Lionel Messi’s final appearance at the tournament.