Fifa opens investigation into Argentina post-final trouble - what happens next?

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Fifa has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following post-match disorder after the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain on Sunday, and trouble broke out as Spanish players began celebrating. Fifa’s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to examine the incidents after the final whistle.

According to the BBC account, Argentina players and staff including Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala appeared to be involved in confrontations with Spain players. The report says Paredes was briefly and incorrectly listed on Fifa’s commentator information system as having been sent off for pushing Eric Garcia by the throat, but Fifa told BBC Sport no disciplinary action was taken at the time. Enzo Fernandez had already been dismissed during stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card.

Potential sanctions could include suspensions for players or coaches and a fine for the Argentine Football Association. BBC Sport notes that Fifa may consider Article 13 of its disciplinary code, which covers offensive conduct and fair play, including behaviour that could damage the game’s reputation. The prosecutor can consider aggravating or mitigating factors, and any ban could apply globally.

The case adds to existing scrutiny of Argentina’s conduct at the tournament. Fifa had already begun looking at a banner displayed after Argentina’s semi-final win over England supporting Argentina’s claim to the Falkland Islands. BBC Sport says there is no confirmed timetable for the prosecutor to complete the post-final investigation.