FIFA has confirmed it has opened an investigation into the violent scenes that followed Spain’s World Cup victory on Sunday, with a whole host of Argentina players now facing potential bans.
Lionel Scaloni's side were beaten 1-0 in New Jersey after Ferran Torres' strike in extra time handed Spain their second World Cup triumph. A fiery clash that saw Enzo Fernandez sent off in normal time was followed by dreadful scenes, with Leandro Paredes appearing to grab Spain defender Eric García by the throat before throwing Gavi to the ground. Nahuel Molina also appeared to strike Rodri in the stomach as he ran onto the pitch at full-time.
FIFA Statement Confirms Probe
There has been much speculation in the aftermath of the final over potential punishments for Argentina, and FIFA has now confirmed it has opened an investigation.
“Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the Fifa World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code (FDC), the Fifa Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents,” Fifa said in a statement.
Additional Misconduct Concerns
Argentina were already facing possible punishment for their conduct in the aftermath of their semi-final win over England. Following that victory, Argentina's players celebrated with a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" ("The Falklands are Argentine"), a message backing Argentina's long-standing claim over the Falkland Islands.
