FIFA Investigates Post-Match Brawl Between Argentina and Spain Players

Zurich. FIFA has started an investigation after a fight broke out between players of Argentina and Spain on the field after the World Cup final match held in New Jersey, USA. European champions Spain won the World Cup title for the second time by securing a 1-0 victory in extra time, defeating the South American team Argentina.

On Monday, FIFA stated that its disciplinary committee is reviewing the match details. In a statement given to Al Jazeera, FIFA said, 'Regarding the post-match incidents, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed an investigating officer to investigate the violation of rules.' The statement mentioned that the conclusion and results will be made public after the investigation is completed.

Tensions escalated between the players and officials of both teams, leading to a physical altercation after the match. As soon as the referee blew the final whistle, some players collapsed on the field while others engaged in a brawl.

In a viral video on social media, Spain's star player Lamine Yamal is seen praying on his knees while players from Argentina attack Spanish players in the background. Argentina's defender Leandro Paredes pushed Eric Garcia of Spain by the neck. When Spain's substitute player Gavi came in between, Paredes also pushed him to the ground.

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni separated Paredes from the two players. Even after that, when Paredes tried to push other Spanish players, his teammates pulled him away. Although there was a warm embrace between Yamal and Argentina's captain Lionel Messi, the overall atmosphere between the two teams remained bitter.

When the stage for the medal ceremony was being prepared, the Spanish players applauded, showing respect to the runners-up Argentina. However, the Argentinian players turned their backs when Spain was handed the gold medals and trophy.

Earlier, FIFA is also investigating the issue of Argentinian players displaying a political banner after defeating England in the semi-finals. Defenders Lisandro Martinez and Giovani Lo Celso showed a banner that read 'Las Malvinas Son Argentinas' (The Falklands belong to Argentina). FIFA has initiated an investigation after the controversial banner regarding the territory under British control was displayed.