FIFA must take disciplinary action against Argentina following three disgraceful incidents during their World Cup final defeat to Spain in New Jersey. The match, which Spain won, was marred by violent conduct, unsportsmanlike behavior, and a lack of respect from the Argentine team.
Paredes Sent Off for Violent Conduct
Leandro Paredes was sent off for violent conduct after jostling, wrestling, and attacking Spain's Eric Garcia and Gavi. His actions were described as thuggery and a loss of self-respect. This was not an isolated incident, as Paredes has a history of such behavior, including against England in Atalanta.
Messi's Desperation and Fernandez's Red Card
Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, tried to engineer Marc Cucurella's dismissal by attempting to snitch on and intimidate Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic. Enzo Fernandez also unsuccessfully tried to influence the referee and later received a red card after two yellow cards. Nicolas Otamendi accused Spain's Rodri and Aymeric Laporte of deliberately trying to influence officials.
Molina's Punch and Ayala's Fist
Right-back Nahuel Molina punched Rodri and played a key part in Ferran Torres' winner. Argentina's assistant coach Raton Ayala put his fist into the face of Spain's Dani Olmo, another incident requiring FIFA's attention.
Lack of Respect and Poor Sportsmanship
Argentina turned their backs to Spain as they lifted the trophy, showing a staggering lack of basic respect. Valentin Barco, who had earlier invaded the field from the bench to celebrate in the face of Jude Bellingham, was notably absent when Spain were crowned champions.
FIFA's Inaction on Previous Incidents
FIFA refused to punish Argentina for the controversial 'Islas Malvinas' banner post-England. Now, they must throw the book at Lionel Scaloni's side, who lost respect by vacating their World Cup crown in such a manner. The team had no shots until the 116th minute and benefited from favorable officiating, including no VAR interventions against them, the most penalties received, and the most opposition goals chalked off.
Spain's Aymeric Laporte referenced that Argentina went overboard in midweek, and the newly-crowned world champions saw no reason to revel in their semi-final triumph over France. Scaloni claimed his players were a "great example for our people and country," but if they are a true reflection of the nation, it's hard to see Argentina ever being universally popular.
