FIFA issues historic 17-match combined ban for Argentina stars after violent World Cup final clash
Heavy punishments for Argentina players
According to a report by the Daily Mail, FIFA announced today that Leandro Paredes has been banned for 10 matches and fined $90,000 for his violent conduct following the World Cup final against Spain last month. His team-mate, Nahuel Molina, will serve a seven-match ban alongside an identical $90,000 fine.
The governing body released a statement detailing the severe repercussions for instigating a brawl that erupted at the final whistle. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala has also been handed a three-match ban and a $30,000 fine, leaving the South American champions facing significant disciplinary consequences for their post-match actions.
Chaos at the final whistle
The ugly scenes unfolded on Sunday when Paredes shoved Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground immediately after the final whistle. As tempers flared, Spain's substitutes rushed onto the pitch to celebrate their 1-0 victory, leading to widespread clashes.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni ultimately had to intervene to cool tempers down at the end of the fierce encounter. For their respective roles in the ensuing melee, Thiago Almada and Gavi have both been handed one-match bans and $30,000 fines. The chaotic ending served as a sour conclusion to the tournament, overshadowing what had been a tense and hard-fought battle between the two footballing heavyweights.
Spain secure second World Cup
Before the post-match violence stole the headlines, Spain managed to beat Argentina after extra time thanks to a decisive goal by substitute Ferran Torres. The strike was enough to clinch their second World Cup title in a dramatic finale.
Argentina were already struggling with discipline during the match, as Enzo Fernandez was dismissed in second-half stoppage time, leaving his side a man down before extra time. Spain have now cemented their status at the top of world football, while Argentina are left to reflect on a disappointing defeat that was severely compounded by their lack of discipline both during and after the match.
What comes next for Argentina?
Argentina must now prepare for their upcoming international fixtures without two of their most crucial players. Scaloni will need to rethink his tactical approach and integrate new faces into the squad to compensate for the prolonged absences of Paredes and Molina. Meanwhile, Spain will look to build on their monumental World Cup triumph as they enter the next competitive cycle.
