FIFA has opened an investigation into a post-match altercation that occurred on the field after Spain defeated Argentina in the World Cup final. The governing body announced Monday that its disciplinary committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to examine potential breaches of the FIFA disciplinary code related to the incidents.
Video footage from the final showed several players involved in a scuffle. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes appeared to push Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat, and when Spain substitute Gavi intervened, Paredes pushed him to the ground. Argentina defender Nahuel Molina also seemed to strike Spain captain Rodri in the stomach as Molina ran past. Rodri was later confronted verbally by former teammate Nicolas Otamendi. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and other players intervened to deescalate the situation.
Spain secured a 1-0 victory in extra time after Argentina had been reduced to 10 men. Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card in stoppage time at the end of 90 minutes.
Following the match, Argentina's players stood facing their own fans with their backs to the podium as Spain's squad collected their trophy. This action was noted as an unusual show of disrespect to the newly crowned champions, who had provided a guard of honor for their opponents to receive their medals.
FIFA's statement did not provide a timetable for the investigation and did not name specific players involved, though Paredes was noted as a central figure in the scuffle. He was not shown a red card during the match but could face a suspension as a result of the investigation.