FIFA Launches Probe into Argentina’s Post-World Cup Final Chaos
Ninoda.com – FIFA has announced a formal inquiry into the heated exchanges that erupted after Argentina’s World Cup final loss to Spain. The disciplinary committee has tasked a prosecutor specializing in ethics and conduct to review the events at MetLife Stadium once the match concluded. This investigation could lead to sanctions for players or the Argentine Football Association (AFA), including possible suspensions or fines.
The altercation unfolded as Argentina’s squad and support staff clashed with Spain’s players in the aftermath of the 1-0 defeat. Key figures such as Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala were reportedly involved. Initial reports suggested Paredes was shown a red card for elbowing Spain’s Eric Garcia, but FIFA later clarified no action was taken immediately.
Post-Match Escalation
As the final whistle echoed in New Jersey, several Argentina players, including Lionel Messi, collapsed to the turf in frustration. Meanwhile, Spain’s team surged forward in celebration, with Rodri, who had been substituted in extra time, joining them from the dugout. The tension peaked when Molina appeared to strike Rodri, sparking a chain reaction of confrontations.
“Paredes threw two or three haymakers into someone’s face. He went for them,” Alan Shearer remarked during BBC One’s coverage. “There’s no place or space for that. We know how much it means to them and how much it hurts to lose, but there’s a way to lose. Too many times we’ve seen that from Argentina. The reaction after the final whistle is terrible.”
“The game’s done, they can have absolutely no complaints about what happened today. Disgusting behaviour,” Joe Hart added.
Argentina’s manager, Lionel Scaloni, attempted to temper the situation during his post-match remarks, emphasizing the team’s composure in both victory and defeat. “We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat,” he stated. “Today, we are showing that we know how to lose. We lost the match, and we accept it, but that doesn’t mean we stop living or forget everything we did to get here.”
The disciplinary committee is now examining the incident under Article 13 of its code, which addresses offensive conduct and breaches of fair play. Actions deemed as “violating the basic rules of decent conduct” or “bringing the sport of football and/or FIFA into disrepute” could face stronger penalties. The prosecutor will assess both aggravating and mitigating factors, potentially enforcing global bans. This process echoes past cases, such as the three-year suspension imposed on Luis Rubiales for kissing Jenni Hermoso after Spain’s Women’s World Cup victory.
