FIFA charges Argentina after World Cup final brawl with Spain

What the report says

Al Jazeera, citing The Associated Press, reported that FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following incidents at the World Cup, including clashes after the final against Spain and a political display after the semifinal against England. The cases were listed by FIFA on Wednesday, July 29, after Spain’s 1-0 win over Argentina in the final on July 19.

According to the report, Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three assault-related charges over post-match confrontations with Spain players, while defender Nahuel Molina faces two. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also charged in connection with an alleged assault after the final. Molina and Thiago Almada were additionally charged with unsporting conduct, as was Spain midfielder Gavi.

FIFA also charged Argentina’s football federation after players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” — “The Malvinas are Argentine” — following Argentina’s 2-1 semifinal victory over England. Argentina calls the Falkland Islands the Islas Malvinas; the territory was at the center of a 1982 war between Argentina and Britain. The report said British officials had asked FIFA to investigate, and FIFA classified the matter as using a sporting event for a non-sporting demonstration.

The disciplinary docket also includes allegations involving discriminatory fan chants and gestures, as well as spectators throwing objects at several World Cup matches. FIFA said those charged have been given a chance to respond before its Disciplinary Committee issues decisions. The proceedings matter because they could lead to sanctions against players, staff or the federation, depending on FIFA’s findings.