FIFA has initiated a disciplinary investigation following the chaotic events that unfolded at the conclusion of Sunday’s World Cup final. Tensions flared as several members of the Argentina team clashed with players from Spain on the pitch.
Ferran Torres‘ decisive goal in the 106th minute secured a 1-0 victory for Spain, earning La Roja their second men’s World Cup title. However, the match held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey had already been marred by Argentine misconduct, highlighted by Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández receiving a red card from referee Slavko Vincic for a foul on Pau Cubarsí during stoppage time.
As reported at the game’s conclusion, videos emerged showing Argentina’s Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina engaging with Spain’s Eric García and Rodri. Additionally, Argentina’s assistant coach, Roberto Ayala, was observed appearing to strike Dani Olmo.
Molina later confronted Rodri, who was verbally challenged by his former Manchester City teammate Nicolas Otamendi.
Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, along with several players, intervened to help de-escalate the situation.
In the wake of these incidents, FIFA has confirmed the initiation of a disciplinary review to evaluate potential repercussions.
A FIFA statement read: “Following an assessment of the relevant match reports from the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in accordance with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate possible breaches of the FDC pertaining to the post-match incidents.”
“Further updates will be provided by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee upon the completion of the prosecutor’s report.”
Notably, Argentina’s Fernández became the first player to be sent off in a World Cup final since John Heitinga was dismissed while playing for the Netherlands against Spain in the 2010 final held in Johannesburg, South Africa.