Argentina is potentially facing a formal Fifa investigation following aggressive incidents that marred the conclusion of the World Cup final. The governing body is already reviewing previous actions involving the team, specifically a banner displayed after the semi-final against England. Following the 1-0 loss to Spain on Sunday, several Argentine players and staff engaged in physical confrontations with their opponents during the Spanish celebration.
Key figures involved in the skirmish, including Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala, could face suspensions if disciplinary measures are pursued. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) also risks a financial penalty. While Leandro Paredes was initially recorded as having received a red card for an altercation with Eric Garcia, the decision was later retracted from official records. Enzo Fernandez was the only player officially dismissed during the match.
The physical confrontation reportedly began when Nahuel Molina appeared to punch Rodri, sparking a chain reaction of aggression. Witnesses noted Paredes striking Garcia in the throat, while Thiago Almada and others were involved in further scuffles. Although Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni attempted to minimize the incident as part of the emotional toll of losing, critics including Alan Shearer and Joe Hart characterized the behavior as unacceptable and detrimental to the sport.
Fifa will evaluate the situation based on its disciplinary code, specifically regarding fair play and reputational harm. The committee may impose global bans, similar to precedents set during past incidents involving players like Luis Suarez or officials like Luis Rubiales. Given the AFA’s history of disciplinary issues—ranging from lewd post-match gestures to political slogans—Fifa is expected to conduct a thorough review of the match reports before reaching a final verdict, a process likely to take several weeks.
