FIFA Opens Investigation Against Argentina Following Falklands Banner And World Cup Final Chaos

FIFA has started disciplinary proceedings against Argentina players Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina, along with assistant coach Roberto Ayala, over clashes with Spain players after the World Cup final in New Jersey.

The global football governing body reached the decision after reviewing the incidents that happened at MetLife Stadium after the conclusion of the final. FIFA has also taken action against the Argentine Football Association (AFA), accusing it of breaking regulations in several matches during the tournament.

Argentina forward Thiago Almada and Spain midfielder Gavi are also under investigation for alleged unsporting behavior. The cases involving Paredes, Molina, and Ayala are more serious, as they concern physical confrontations with Gavi, Rodri, and Dani Olmo during the match.

"In accordance with the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the respondents have now been provided with the opportunity to present their position, following which a decision will be issued by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee in due course," said the official FIFA statement.

The case against the AFA includes allegations of offensive chants and messages, some of which made political references to the Falkland Islands. Argentina calls the islands the Islas Malvinas, while they are currently controlled by the United Kingdom. Besides this, the AFA is also facing a separate investigation over allegations of racist abuse.

FIFA does not allow football matches to be used as a platform for political or unrelated causes. The Falkland Islands banner sparked controversy and drew reactions from people in both Europe and South America.

For the unversed, this is not the first time an Argentina team has found itself in hot waters. Back in 2014, FIFA fined Argentina £20,000 after players displayed a much bigger banner before their friendly match against Slovenia in La Plata.

Their recent conduct in the tournament, especially after losing the final against Spain was criticized by fans and experts from all around the world. Considering the growing criticism, FIFA has now opened an investigation against Argentina to identify those who breached its rules during the tournament.