FIFA investigates post-match brawl between Argentine and Spanish players

FIFA launched an investigation on Monday after Spain’s celebrations following their victory over Argentina in the World Cup final took an ugly turn when players briefly clashed on the pitch. Video replays showed several players involved in a scuffle, including Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes. He appeared to push Spaniard Eric Garcia by the throat. When Spanish substitute Gavi stepped up to intervene, Paredes pushed him to the ground. Spain captain Rodri also appeared to be hit in the stomach by Argentina defender Nahuel Molina as he ran to join his teammates celebrating the title win. Molina then piled on Rodri, who was the target of a verbal confrontation from his former Manchester City teammate Nicolas Otamendi. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and other players rushed to defuse the situation. FIFA said in a statement that its “disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate possible violations of the (FIFA disciplinary code) in relation to post-match incidents.” The brief statement gave no timetable for an investigation and did not name Paredes, who did not receive a red card after the match but could be suspended. Spain needed extra time to win Sunday’s final 1-0 after Argentina were reduced to 10 men. Enzo Fernández was sent off with a second yellow card in stoppage time after 90 minutes. The Argentine players stood facing their supporters, their backs to the podium, when the Spanish team lifted the trophy. This was an unusual lack of respect towards the new champions, who had given their opponents a guard of honor to collect their medals. Associated Press reporting.