FIFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against Argentina after ugly scenes followed the World Cup final defeat to Spain, while Lionel Messi admitted the heartbreaking loss will take time to heal.
FIFA investigates Argentina after chaotic World Cup final
MediaBites | Sports Desk
FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following violent clashes that erupted after the final whistle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, raising the possibility of suspensions for players and fines for the Argentine Football Association (AFA).
The governing body’s disciplinary committee has appointed an investigator to review the incidents that unfolded moments after Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina on Sunday, ending the South American side’s hopes of lifting the World Cup trophy.
Several Argentina players and coaching staff members were seen confronting Spain’s celebrating players, with Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala among those reportedly involved in the altercation.
What sparked the post-match chaos?
The confrontation began shortly after the final whistle at New Jersey’s stadium as Spain’s players rushed onto the pitch to celebrate their historic triumph.
According to reports, Spain midfielder Rodri was running toward his teammates when he appeared to be struck by Argentina defender Nahuel Molina. The incident quickly escalated as players from both sides gathered, leading to pushing, shoving and physical confrontations.
Leandro Paredes was initially shown a red card after appearing to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat. However, FIFA later confirmed that the dismissal was removed from the official record and no immediate disciplinary action was taken during the match.
Substitute Gavi was also caught in the melee after attempting to intervene. Television footage appeared to show Thiago Almada knocking him to the ground before Paredes pushed him again during the confrontation.
Assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also seen involved in the clashes, with footage suggesting he grabbed Garcia by the neck and later confronted Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.
Former England captain Alan Shearer, speaking during the BBC’s live coverage, described the scenes as unacceptable, saying there was “no place in football” for such behavior. Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart also criticized Argentina’s reaction, calling it “embarrassing.”
Messi admits World Cup final defeat still hurts
Argentina captain Lionel Messi broke his silence after the heartbreaking defeat, saying the loss had left him in deep pain.
“I am hurting a lot. It will take time for this wound to heal,” Messi wrote on social media while congratulating Spain on winning the World Cup.
The defeat marks the second World Cup final loss of Messi’s legendary career after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Germany in the 2014 final.
At 39, questions remain over whether Messi will feature in the 2030 FIFA World Cup, although the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has yet to announce his international future.
Argentina already facing another FIFA case
The latest investigation comes as FIFA was already examining Argentina over a separate incident during the semifinal victory against England, when players displayed a banner supporting Argentina’s claim over the Falkland Islands.
If found guilty in either case, Argentina could face financial penalties, while players or officials deemed responsible for misconduct risk suspensions that could affect future international competitions.
FIFA has not announced when its disciplinary committee is expected to deliver a final verdict.
