FIFA to Investigate Argentina Following Post-Match Brawl at World Cup Final
FIFA will reportedly be investigating Argentina for the events that transpired after the national team’s 2026 World Cup Final loss to Spain, per Sky Sports.
After the final whistle of the match, which saw Spain win 1-0, a brawl erupted among players. Tensions were high throughout the match, culminating in this incident.
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Argentina’s Leandro Paredes appeared to grab Spain’s Eric García by the throat, provoking further pushing, shoving, and tripping among players.
The scuffle was brief as Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni intervened to defuse the situation.
Video replays show Paredes also targeting Spain’s Gavi, pushing him to the ground.
If FIFA’s investigation finds that Paredes did indeed administer a chokehold, as the footage suggests, it would lead to an automatic red card being issued.
The organization plans to “review the referee’s reports, official match documentation and video footage before deciding whether any sanctions are warranted.”
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Additionally, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina is expected to be scrutinized for his confrontation with Spain captain Rodri during the fracas. Assistant coach Robert Ayala may also come under review for allegedly engaging in an altercation with Dani Olmo.
A formal decision from FIFA is anticipated in several weeks, as the investigation is conducted thoroughly.