FIFA Investigates Post-Match Altercations After Spain-Argentina World Cup Final

FIFA initiated an investigation after tensions flared between players post-match, following Spain’s victory over Argentina in the World Cup final.

Footage captured a scuffle involving various players, notably Argentina’s Leandro Paredes. He appeared to push Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat. Spain’s substitute, Gavi, attempted to intervene but was pushed to the ground by Paredes.

Spain’s captain, Rodri, seemed to be struck in the stomach by Argentina’s Nahuel Molina as celebrations ensued. Molina further confronted Rodri verbally, alongside former Manchester City teammate Nicolas Otamendi.

Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, and other team members moved quickly to calm the situation.

FIFA, through a statement, announced its disciplinary committee has tasked a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to review potential breaches of the disciplinary code regarding these incidents. The statement did not specify Paredes, who avoided a red card during the game, yet could face suspension.

Spain secured the win with a 1-0 score in extra time after Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card and was sent off in stoppage time.

After the match, Argentina’s players turned their backs to the podium as Spain lifted the trophy, a gesture seen as disrespectful to the new champions who had earlier formed a guard of honor for Argentina.