FIFA has opened an investigation into potential breaches of its disciplinary code following violent post-match scenes after Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain. The final, held in New Jersey, ended 1-0 to Spain after extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the winner in the 106th minute.
Match details and incidents
Spain dominated the match, limiting Argentina to no shots in 90 minutes and none on target over 120 minutes. Argentina attempted to counter with physical play, and Enzo Fernandez received two yellow cards in quick succession just before the end of regular time. After the final whistle, Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina were involved in altercations. Molina shoved Rodri during Spain's celebrations, sparking a brawl where Paredes threw Gavi to the ground. Argentina coach Roberto Ayala punched Spain's Dani Olmo.
FIFA investigation
FIFA's Disciplinary Committee has appointed a prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code under article 36. A 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.'
Reaction from pundits
Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart criticised Argentina's behaviour but noted Lionel Messi's class. 'There was a man on the pitch who did have class, and that was Lionel Messi who shook hands with each one of those Spanish players,' Hart said on the BBC. 'The game is done and Argentina can have no complaints over what happened today. It was disgusting behaviour. Rodri didn’t need to get in their faces but when you’ve been wound up for 120 minutes and you felt you’ve been wronged and you’ve got that win, leave it. With Argentina, you’re not surprised they’ve crossed the line again.'
