Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has been handed a 10-match international ban after the confrontation that followed his side’s World Cup final defeat by Spain. FIFA also imposed a $90,000 fine on the player.
A heavy punishment is issued
Paredes received the toughest sanction among the players involved. The ban was linked to incidents during the aftermath of the final on July 19.
Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain. Tensions then spilled over after the final whistle. Several players were involved in the confrontation.
FIFA said the suspensions will apply to upcoming matches involving the players’ national teams. The decisions can still be appealed.
Molina also receives a ban
Argentina defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches. He was also fined $90,000.
Thiago Almada was given a one-match ban. A $30,000 fine was also imposed.
Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala received a three-match suspension. He was fined $30,000.
Spain midfielder Gavi was also suspended for one match. A $30,000 fine was imposed on him.
Argentina face further sanctions
The Argentine Football Association was fined $321,000 over several disciplinary breaches. The charges included team misconduct. They also covered discriminatory chants and gestures by supporters.
The federation was also ordered to limit attendance to 50 per cent for its next two home matches. One of those matches and $100,000 of the fine have been suspended during a probation period.
FIFA also ordered $100,000 of the fine to be directed towards an anti-discrimination programme.
Appeals remain possible
The AFA (Argentina Football Association) has indicated that it intends to challenge the sanctions.
The federation can request the full reasoning behind the decisions. Appeals can then be filed under FIFA’s disciplinary rules.
The latest ruling closes one chapter of the World Cup final. But its effects will now follow Argentina into the next international cycle.
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