FIFA are set to launch an investigation into Argentina's behaviour after the full-time whistle in their World Cup final defeat to Spain, as the tournament ended in disgraceful scenes on Sunday night. Spain lifted the trophy for the second time after Ferran Torres finally broke Argentina's resistance with a 106th-minute goal to give his side a 1-0 win in New Jersey. The 2022 champions, meanwhile, did not register a shot on target until the 115th minute, while they had Enzo Fernandez sent off at the end of normal time.
Violent Outburst After Final Whistle
When the full-time whistle sounded, Spain's celebrations were marred by scenes of violence initiated by Argentinian players, with Leandro Paredes shown a red card after grabbing Eric Garcia around the throat and kicking him to the floor. Paredes then appeared to swipe at Gavi, before also pushing him to the ground, while defender Nahuel Molina also seemingly punched Spain captain Rodri in the stomach. Argentina coach Roberto Ayala, meanwhile, was also caught appearing to strike Spain's Dani Olmo in the face during the chaos.
The ugly scenes have been condemned across the football world, with BBC pundits Joe Hart and Micah Richards - who watched the drama unfold inside the MetLife Stadium - describing what happened as "disgusting" and "embarrassing".
FIFA Investigation and Potential Sanctions
Now, Sky Sports reports that FIFA are set to investigate what happened following the full-time whistle, with Argentina potentially facing fines and suspensions for their behaviour. It comes after Argentina talisman Lionel Messi was accused of a "shameful" act during the final, as he attempted to get Spain defender Marc Cucurella sent off during a row between both sets of players.
As Fernandez was given his marching orders after being shown a second yellow card during second-half stoppage time, Messi was seen having heated words with Cucurella, who appeared to briefly put his hand in front of his mouth. The Argentina captain then walked away from the defender with his hand up in the air, before pointing at him and appealing for the referee to show him a red card.
Messi's Controversial Actions Condemned
Under FIFA rules brought in ahead of the World Cup, players can be sent off for covering their mouths while communicating with opponents - but Messi's attempts to get Cucurella dismissed have been slammed. Reviewing the incident, BBC pundit Wayne Rooney said: "It is desperation. Argentina play like that, we know that’s what they do. But the one thing you want is good sportsmanship and that was sad to see Lionel Messi doing that."
Hart added: "I didn’t enjoy that at all from Lionel Messi. You realise how on top Spain are if even Lionel Messi is reverting to that," while ITV co-commentator Lee Dixon described the Inter Miami star as "a baby". The Mirror's chief sports writer, Jeremy Cross, meanwhile, said it was "shameful, embarrassing and humiliating" to see Messi revert to those sorts of tactics.
