Argentina face World Cup reminder
Argentina are set to be given another brutal reminder of their devastating World Cup final defeat. The thuggish and negative tactics employed by Lionel Scaloni's side proved in vain as Spain clinched a deserved victory thanks to Ferran Torres's extra-time strike.
Argentina had been aiming to lift the trophy for the fourth time in their history after Lionel Messi inspired the team to glory at Qatar 2022. Since becoming world champions, their strip had featured a gold crest displaying an outline of the trophy alongside the words "FIFA World Champions 2022". However, that prized addition to their iconic colour scheme must now be removed, as they are no longer world champions.
Spain will now don the coveted emblem at the next World Cup, which they will co-host with Portugal and Morocco, with special one-off opening matches taking place in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay to mark the 100th anniversary of the World Cup. Argentina can at least continue to display a badge commemorating their Copa America victory in 2024, a title they will defend in 2028.
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FIFA opens disciplinary investigation
Argentina failed to relinquish the World Cup trophy or the gold badge with any grace. Leandro Paredes, along with team-mate Nahuel Molina and Argentina coach Roberto Ayala, were involved in the brawl seconds after the final whistle at the MetLife Stadium. Contrary to the belief at the time, Paredes was not shown a red card following the incident.
But FIFA has announced that its disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate possible breaches of the FIFA disciplinary code. The South Americans attracted further condemnation for their combative style, with Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez sent off for two yellow cards.
A FIFA statement read:
"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."
Retrospective punishments, such as fines and/or suspensions, are possible for the country's federation or individuals. However, Spain midfielder Gavi, who was grabbed by Paredes during the post-match melee, insists he doesn't not want the Boca Juniors star to be hit with a ban.
Gavi told El Partidazo de COPE:
"I don't think [Paredes] should be suspended. I understand it's not a good image for children, but I think there's also that side to football, which is a bit more physical, more aggressive. "The most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match, and that's it. In the end, I think it's all football, and it has to be that way."
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