FIFA is deliberating on whether to impose disciplinary measures against Argentina after players celebrated their World Cup semi-final victory over England with a flag that bore a political message regarding the Falkland Islands, The Standard reports.

The reigning champions came from behind to beat England 2-1 late in the game, securing a spot in the World Cup final, where they will face Spain.

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Their post-match celebrations, however, raised eyebrows, and the team could face repercussions as a result.

Several Argentine players were observed posing with a flag that read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” which translates to “The Falklands are Argentinian.”

The Falkland Islands, referred to as Las Malvinas in Argentina, are at the center of a long-standing sovereignty dispute between the United Kingdom and Argentina.

Players, including Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez from Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United, were among those photographed with the flag.

Fans and players also chanted songs associated with the Falklands conflict, and similar posts appeared on the Argentina national team’s social media platforms.

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This incident has attracted attention as FIFA’s tournament regulations prohibit any political messages and demonstrations during the World Cup.

Consequently, the governing body has confirmed that it is reviewing the situation before deciding on potential disciplinary actions.

A FIFA spokesperson stated that the organization’s independent Disciplinary Committee is investigating the official match reports and relevant circumstances to determine if any action is warranted under the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

Currently, no decision has been reached regarding the punishment of Argentina or any individual players.

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If FIFA concludes that its rules were violated, potential sanctions could include financial penalties, with reports indicating fines could reach up to $20,000.

Player suspensions are also considered among possible options, although any outcome will depend on the investigation’s findings.

In response to the situation, the UK government has issued a statement. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer remarked: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are.

“Our position is unchanged. Self-determination rests with the islanders, and our commitment to the Falklands will never waver.

“More broadly, potential action is a matter for FIFA, but it’s been a fantastic World Cup, and we’ve said throughout that politics should stay out of football.”