KABUL (Pajhwok): FIFA has launched an investigation into an on-field altercation involving players from Argentina and Spain following their World Cup final match in New Jersey, United States, where Spain defeated the defending champions 1-0 to claim the title.
Football’s world governing body said on Monday that its disciplinary committee had reviewed reports from the match and appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to examine possible violations related to the post-match incidents, Al Jazeera reported.
“FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC (FIFA Disciplinary Code) with regard to the post-match incidents,” FIFA said in a statement.
The governing body added that details of the investigation’s findings and any decisions would be announced after the process is completed.
The final, which was decided in extra time, ended with tensions rising between players and staff from both teams. After the referee blew the final whistle, several players celebrated while others expressed disappointment, with some becoming involved in a physical confrontation.
Videos circulating on social media showed Spanish forward Lamine Yamal celebrating on his knees while clashes appeared to break out between players in the background.
According to reports, Argentina defender Leandro Paredes was involved in an altercation with Spain’s Eric Garcia, while Spanish substitute player Gavi intervened before the situation escalated. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also came onto the pitch to help separate the players involved.
Despite the confrontation, some players from both teams exchanged greetings after the match. Spain’s Yamal and Argentina captain Lionel Messi shared an embrace following the final whistle.
During the medal ceremony, Spain’s players formed a guard of honour for the runners-up and applauded the Argentine team as they collected their silver medals. However, Argentina’s players did not form a similar gesture when Spain received their medals and the championship trophy.
FIFA has not announced a timeline for completing the investigation or whether disciplinary measures will be taken against any players involved.
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