FIFA Launches Investigation Into Post-Match Fights Following World Cup Final

FIFA has formally opened a disciplinary investigation into Argentina's squad following the fights that occurred at the conclusion of the World Cup final, where Spain secured a 1-0 extra-time victory.

The World Cup final at MetLife Stadium ended in chaos as members of the Argentinian squad and coaching staff lashed out at celebrating Spanish players.

The unrest began almost immediately after the match concluded. As Spain's players rushed onto the field to celebrate, midfielder Rodri ran from the dugout toward his teammates. Video footage captured defender Nahuel Molina striking Rodri in the arm or stomach, sparking a wider confrontation in the center of the pitch.

During the ensuing fight, Leandro Paredes jabbed Eric Garcia in the throat and shoved Gavi to the floor, while Thiago Almada also took Gavi down. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala appeared to hold Garcia by the throat before striking midfielder Dani Olmo.

"Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents," FIFA stated on Monday.

Pundits delivered harsh criticisms of the conduct during match broadcasts. Former England striker Alan Shearer voiced his frustration:

"Paredes threw two or three haymakers into someone's face. He went for them. There is no place or space for that. We know how much it means to them and we know how much it hurts to lose, but there is a way to lose. Too many times we have seen that from Argentina. The reaction after the final whistle is terrible."

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart echoed those thoughts, adding: "The game's done, they can have absolutely no complaints about what happened today. Disgusting behaviour."

Despite the visible clashes, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni attempted to project a calm image during his post-match comments: "We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat. Today, we are showing that we know how to lose. We lost the match, and we accept it, but that doesn't mean we stop living or forget everything we did to get here."

The post-match violence isn't the only issue putting the Argentine Football Association (AFA) under FIFA's microscope. The governing body was already reviewing an incident following Argentina's 2-1 semi-final win over England, where players displayed a political banner claiming sovereignty over the Falkland Islands after the match.

Under Article 13 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the newly appointed prosecutor can recommend worldwide suspensions or substantial fines if the squad's behavior is judged to bring the sport into disrepute.