Post-Match Incidents Draw Criticism
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has voiced strong disapproval regarding the conduct of Argentina players following the World Cup final on Sunday. De la Fuente described the behaviour as “intolerable” and “unacceptable,” particularly noting incidents that occurred immediately after Spain secured their second World Cup title.
The coach highlighted specific confrontations involving Argentina players. Nahuel Molina reportedly clashed with Rodri, while Leandro Paredes was involved in altercations with Eric García and Gavi. These incidents took place at New York New Jersey Stadium as Spain’s players were celebrating their victory.
De la Fuente, speaking to Spanish television, admitted he did not witness the events unfold in real-time, as he was engaged in celebrations with his team. However, upon reflection, he found the actions of the Argentina players to be beyond what should be permitted in professional football.
He expressed surprise at the behaviour from players he had previously praised, noting that such actions were unexpected from individuals of their calibre, especially given Argentina’s highly regarded coach.
FIFA Investigation Underway
The incidents have prompted FIFA to launch an investigation. The world football governing body has tasked one of its disciplinary prosecutors with reporting on the confrontations that followed Spain’s 1-0 extra-time win. This inquiry aims to determine if there were any violations of FIFA’s disciplinary code.
Despite the scenes being widely circulated on social media, no sanctions have yet been imposed on the Argentina players involved. FIFA has not provided specific details regarding the scope of its investigator’s remit, nor has it indicated whether witness statements from Spain’s players or staff will be sought.
The disciplinary rules of FIFA allow for a special prosecutor to initiate disciplinary proceedings and propose measures against member associations, clubs, and individuals. However, no timetable has been set for any potential cases, and it remains unclear when any bans for Argentina players might be applied, particularly as the team does not have competitive matches scheduled in the near future.
Adding to the post-match tension, Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala issued an apology on Wednesday for his own confrontation with Dani Olmo, describing it as a shove rather than a punch.
Spain’s Composure Praised
In contrast to his criticism of Argentina, De la Fuente commended the exemplary conduct of his own players. He praised their composure and professionalism when faced with what he termed “acts of aggression” and “provocations.”
The Spain coach believes that his team’s restrained response prevented the situations from escalating into more serious incidents. He highlighted their ability to maintain composure throughout the challenging post-match environment at MetLife Stadium.
During the medal ceremony, the Spain squad formed a guard of honour for the Argentina players as they proceeded to the podium to receive their medals from US President Donald Trump. However, minutes later, when Spain captain Rodri lifted the trophy, a significant portion of the Argentina squad reportedly turned their backs on the ceremonial moment.
De la Fuente’s comments underscore the ongoing scrutiny of the events that transpired after the World Cup final on Sunday.
Source: theguardian.com
