Fifa opens investigation into Argentina post-final trouble

Fifa has confirmed it will investigate the ugly scenes that marred the end of the World Cup final, with Argentina facing potential disciplinary action after a 1-0 defeat to Spain. The governing body's disciplinary committee has appointed a prosecutor to assess the altercations that broke out at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey following the final whistle.

What happened after the final whistle?

As Spain's players celebrated their victory, several Argentina players and backroom staff became involved in physical confrontations. The trouble began when Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appeared to punch Spain midfielder Rodri on the arm or stomach as Rodri ran past to join his teammates. Rodri confronted Molina, but Molina thrust forward aggressively. Spain's Eric Garcia then intervened, at which point Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes jabbed Garcia in the throat. Unused substitute Gavi tried to separate them but was forced to the ground by Thiago Almada, and Paredes then pushed Gavi to the floor with a hand to his face. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also seen holding Garcia around the throat and later appeared to strike Spain's Dani Olmo.

Former England striker Alan Shearer, commentating on BBC One, condemned the behavior: "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 goalkeeper Joe Hart added: "The game's done, they can have absolutely no complaints about what happened today. Disgusting behaviour."

Initial reports of red card retracted

It was initially reported by Fifa that referee Slavko Vincic had sent off Paredes for his actions, but the red card was removed from the record shortly afterward. Fifa has confirmed to BBC Sport that no disciplinary action was taken at the time. Argentina had already had Enzo Fernandez sent off in second-half stoppage time for a second yellow card.

Argentina boss plays down incidents

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who attempted to calm the situation, appeared to downplay the altercations in his post-match interview. "We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat," he said. "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."

Potential sanctions

Fifa's disciplinary committee has several options. By appointing a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor, Fifa will examine offences beyond potential violent conduct, increasing the likelihood of stronger punishments if charges are brought. Article 13 of the disciplinary code covers offensive behavior and fair play principles; the actions could be deemed as "violating the basic rules of decent conduct" and "behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or Fifa into disrepute." Any player or coach found guilty could face suspension, while the Argentine Football Association (AFA) may also be fined.

This is not the first potential disciplinary issue for Argentina at this tournament. Fifa had already begun a process regarding Argentina players holding a banner supporting the country's claims to the Falkland Islands after their 2-1 semi-final win against England.