FIFA disciplinary investigation has been launched following a heated post-match altercation that overshadowed Spain’s dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the FIFA World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium. Ferran Torres was the one to lift the World Cup in the 106th minute after Spain found themselves in a tight finish to win the tournament for the second time in 33 years.
But the historic victory was quickly followed by wild scenes between players and coaches from both teams. Aggression had been rising during the final moments of extra time when Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez was booked for a challenge on Spain’s Pau Cubarsi to hand his team a straight red card. Argentina went 10 men up with the dismissal, and it was the first red card in the World Cup’s history in the end of a final.
There were several obvious flash points in the match, such as one between Argentine defender Leandro Paredes and Spain striker Eric Garcia, and another between Argentina’s Nahuel Molina and Spain’s Rodri. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala also was reportedly involved in a physical altercation with Dani Olmo.
FIFA confirmed in an official statement that its Disciplinary Committee has appointed a prosecutor according to Article 36 of the Disciplinary Code to examine the possible violations related to the incident.
The governing body has given an indication that more information will be provided when the investigation is complete. Senior players and head coach Lionel Scaloni of Argentina de-escalated the situation, stopping further escalation on field.
FIFA considers breaches of conduct that may have an effect on players and staff involved in Spain’s victory and is evaluating whether or not to impose sanctions, but the highlight of the moment has now been the World Cup’s victory itself.
