FIFA launches probe into post-match altercation between Spain and Argentina players
FIFA announced an investigation into a brief on-field confrontation involving players from Spain and Argentina after the World Cup final, appointing a disciplinary prosecutor to examine possible code violations.
FIFA said on Monday that its disciplinary committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to examine potential breaches of the FIFA disciplinary code following a post-match incident in the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. Video footage released after the match showed several players involved in a brief scuffle. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was seen making contact with Spain defender Eric Garc\u00eda and later with substitute Gavi, who intervened. Spain captain Rodri appeared to be struck in the abdomen by Argentina defender Nahuel Molina as he moved toward his teammates. Molina also engaged in a verbal exchange with Rodri, which was reportedly prompted by former Manchester City teammate Nicolas Otamendi. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and other Argentine players intervened to calm the situation. FIFA's statement did not provide a timeline for the investigation and did not name any individuals. The final, decided in extra time with a 1-0 victory for Spain, had already seen Argentina reduced to ten men after Enzo Fern\u00e1ndez received a second yellow card in stoppage time. After the match, Argentina players faced their supporters with their backs to the podium while Spain lifted the trophy.