FIFA has begun disciplinary procedures against Argentina internationals Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina, as well as the South American nation’s assistant coach Roberto Ayala, regarding post-match altercations with Spain players following last weekend’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final showdown in New Jersey.
After a week’s worth of thorough investigation, FIFA officials concluded following various reports from MetLife Stadium that the three faced assault charges in relation to run-ins with Spain’s Gavi, Rodri and Dani Olmo. If found guilty, Paredes, Molina and Ayala face several games or a months-long ban.
Spain’s Gavi and Argentina’s Thiago Almada have also been hit with new allegations for their unsportsmanlike behaviour throughout the remainder of the celebrations after their final clash.
In a report filed on Friday, the governing football body mentioned that the group accused have been asked to share a response and justification to their charges, while committee members look to pass judgment.
FIFA has meanwhile opened several disciplinary cases against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) concerning possible violations of several laws and regulations during this year’s campaign, with charges ranging from discriminatory songs, team misconduct, breach of protocol or security, and the display of political logos.
Argentina may face more trouble and issues following the presentation of a banner from supporters reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” after beating England in the semi-finals and other concerns such as racial abuse towards opponents from its own fan base.
This summer’s competition marked the end of a hugely disappointing World Cup journey for Lionel Scaloni’s nation who ended its quest for a second consecutive global crown with a disappointing 1-0 defeat in extra time on July 12, thanks to a stunning strike from Ferran Torres.
