FIFA launches probe into post-final altercations between Spain and Argentina
FIFA said it will investigate alleged physical confrontations involving players from Spain and Argentina after the World Cup final, citing possible breaches of its disciplinary code.
FIFA announced on Monday that it will open an investigation into incidents that occurred on the field after the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. The governing body said a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor has been appointed to examine possible violations of article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code following reports of player confrontations.
Video footage showed Argentina defender Nahuel Molina making contact with Spain midfielder Rodri as the latter entered the pitch to celebrate. A subsequent clash in the centre of the field involved Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes and Spain defender Eric Garcia, with Paredes later seen pushing Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground.
In the match itself, Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández received a red card in added time after a second yellow for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi. Four other Argentine players, including substitute Paredes, were booked, as was head coach Lionel Scaloni.
"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," FIFA said in a statement.