FIFA opens multiple disciplinary cases against Argentina after World Cup final
FIFA has charged Argentine players and officials for on-field assaults, unsporting conduct and a political banner displayed after the semifinal, while also investigating fan misconduct.
FIFA announced on Wednesday that it has filed several disciplinary cases involving Argentina following the World Cup final. Midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three assault charges for an incident with Spanish players after Spain’s 1-0 victory, while defender Nahuel Molina is charged with two assault counts. Coach Roberto Ayala also faces a single assault charge. Both Molina and forward Thiago Almada, along with Spain’s Gavi, have been cited for unsporting behavior.
In addition, the Argentine Football Association has been charged after players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” – a reference to the disputed Falkland Islands – after the 2-1 semifinal win over England. FIFA described the banner as “using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature.”
The disciplinary list also includes allegations of discriminatory chants and gestures by spectators, an assistant coach’s alleged assault after the final, and reports of objects being thrown by fans during various matches. All parties have been given the opportunity to submit their responses before the FIFA Disciplinary Committee renders a decision.