FIFA to Review World Cup Final Brawl
FIFA will internally review the match commissioner's report on the brawl that erupted after Sunday's World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium. The violence broke out seconds after the final whistle, with Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes appearing to throw punches at Spain players as they celebrated their victory.
The review will determine whether to open disciplinary proceedings against any player or the Argentinian FA (AFA). Paredes was not sent off during the match, meaning any suspension would stem from a retrospective investigation by FIFA's disciplinary committee.
Argentina's Physical Approach Under Scrutiny
Argentina faced criticism for their aggressive style, similar to their semi-final win over England. Enzo Fernandez was sent off for two yellow cards, the second for a reckless challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi. Paredes' actions after the final whistle have drawn particular attention.
Political Banner Controversy
It remains unclear if FIFA is investigating Argentina players for displaying a banner claiming sovereignty over the Falkland Islands after the semi-final. This appears to violate Article 34.3 of tournament regulations. The AFA was fined for a similar act in 2014, while UEFA imposed one-match bans on Spain's Rodri and Alvaro Morata for chanting about Gibraltar after Euro 2024.
FIFA has previously taken a hard line on political gestures, warning England's Harry Kane against wearing a 'OneLove' armband at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where homosexuality is criminalized.
