FIFA has launched a disciplinary investigation into the post-match clashes that erupted after Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain.
Spain secured a 1-0 extra-time victory at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to hand La Roja their second men’s World Cup title.
The tension had already escalated before the final whistle after Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a red card by referee Slavko Vinčić during stoppage time for a foul on Pau Cubarsí.
Following the match, videos circulating online appeared to show Argentina’s Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina striking Spain’s Eric García and Rodri. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also seen apparently hitting Dani Olmo during the confrontation.
Molina was later involved in another heated exchange with Rodri, who also faced a verbal confrontation from his former Manchester City teammate, Nicolás Otamendi.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni and several players stepped in to calm the situation and prevent the altercation from escalating further.
In response to the incidents, FIFA confirmed on Monday that it had begun disciplinary proceedings to determine whether further sanctions are warranted.
A FIFA statement said, “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.
“Further details will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor’s report has been completed.”
Fernández’s dismissal also marked a historic moment, making him the first player to be sent off in a FIFA World Cup final since Netherlands defender John Heitinga received a red card in the 2010 final against Spain in Johannesburg, South Africa.
