Post-match confrontation at World Cup final
Following Spain’s 1-0 victory over Argentina in the World Cup final, a confrontation occurred on the pitch involving several players and coaching staff members. Argentina’s Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada, along with assistant coach Roberto Ayala, were reportedly involved in the fracas. During the incident, Paredes appeared to push Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat. Unused substitute Gavi attempted to intervene but was forced to the ground by Almada. Paredes also pushed the Barcelona midfielder by placing his hand in the Spaniard’s face.
FIFA has since appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the events. Any player or coach found to be involved could face a suspension, and the Argentine Football Association might also incur a fine. Despite the severity of the incident, Gavi expressed his view that Paredes should not be suspended.
The confrontation took place after Spain secured the World Cup trophy with Ferran Torres’ extra-time goal in the 106th minute. The celebrations were overshadowed by the chaotic scenes that unfolded on the pitch. Earlier in the match, Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez had been dismissed after receiving a second yellow card in second-half added time.
Gavi and Ibrahimovic react to the incident
Gavi shared his perspective on the incident, stating, “I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended.” He acknowledged that the image might not be ideal for younger audiences but suggested that a more physical and aggressive aspect is part of football. Gavi believed that the most logical course of action would have been for Paredes to be sent off during the match itself, rather than facing a retrospective suspension.
Roberto Ayala, Argentina’s assistant coach, also commented on his involvement, stating he would apologize to Spain’s Dani Olmo. Ayala explained that he appeared to strike the Barcelona midfielder in the face, describing it as “more of a push than a punch.” He clarified his intention, saying, “When the match ended, I saw a scuffle in the middle of the pitch and I went over to stop it from escalating, because that’s not who we are.” Ayala took responsibility for his actions, emphasizing that his goal was simply to separate those involved.
Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic offered a strong condemnation of Leandro Paredes’ actions. Speaking during his punditry role, Ibrahimovic described Paredes’ behavior as “unprofessional.” He stated, “Paredes can be happy there was no player like me on the pitch. If I had been there, I would have headbutted him and been sent off.” Ibrahimovic also questioned the reaction of Spain’s players, expressing surprise that they did not do more to defend their teammates during the confrontation. He remarked, “I don’t know what the Spanish players are doing? They are just watching another player hit their team-mate.” Broadcast footage showed Nahuel Molina striking Rodri, and Paredes appearing to kick Eric Garcia before grabbing Gavi and dragging him to the ground.
FIFA investigation and disciplinary action
Initially, there were reports on FIFA’s commentator information system that Leandro Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Garcia. However, this report was later corrected, and FIFA confirmed that no disciplinary action was taken during the match itself. Despite this, FIFA has opened an investigation into the events that occurred after the final whistle, indicating that retrospective disciplinary action against Paredes remains a possibility.
Paredes has since made a statement on social media, thanking Argentina’s supporters and expressing pride in representing his country, but he did not directly address the altercation. His message conveyed a heavy heart regarding the team’s inability to bring joy to their country, while also expressing pride for their efforts and for flying their flag at the top once again.
The ongoing FIFA investigation will assess the actions of all involved, including Paredes, Molina, Almada, and Ayala. The outcome could lead to suspensions for players or coaches and a potential fine for the Argentine Football Association.
The incident has sparked debate about player conduct and the role of officials in managing post-match confrontations in major tournaments like the World Cup.
The disciplinary and ethics prosecutor appointed by FIFA will continue to assess what transpired after Spain’s 1-0 victory.
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Source: bbc.com
