FIFA bans three Argentina players for scuffle after losing World Cup final
FIFA has issued significant suspensions and fines to three Argentina players following a violent scuffle after the World Cup final against Spain. The sanctions include a 10-match ban for Leandro Paredes, marking one of the most severe disciplinary actions in the tournament's history.
Why it matters
These sanctions set a major precedent for player conduct in international soccer and impact the competitive landscape for future tournaments.
Argentina's Leandro Paredes knocks down Spain's Gavi during scuffle after the World Cup final soccer match between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J., near New York, July 19. Julio Cortez/The Associated Press
FIFA banned three Argentina players on Friday, including a 10-match suspension for midfielder Leandro Paredes, for striking Spain opponents after losing the World Cup final.
The ban for Paredes – who grabbed Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat and pushed Gavi to the ground – ranks with the FIFA sanctions for Uruguay forward Luis Suárez in 2014 as among the most severe in World Cup history.
Argentina defender Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-game ban while Thiago Almada was given a one-game suspension. FIFA imposed fines of US$90,000 on Paredes and Molina, and US$30,000 for Almada.
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