Argentina's World Cup stars LET-OFF without serious punishment for Falklands banner against England – as two of their players get banned for total of 17 matches over final fighting
Argentina were condemned for their thuggish antics throughout the tournament, prompting FIFA to investigate their behaviour following the final whistle of last month’s showpiece.
WAF Context
FIFA has sanctioned Argentina following post-match disorder at the World Cup final against Spain. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a ten-match ban, whilst Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches over their involvement in a brawl. The players displaying a Falkland Islands banner faced only a fine of $321,000, avoiding serious disciplinary action for that conduct.
What we know
- Leandro Paredes banned for ten matches for his role in the final altercation.
- Nahuel Molina suspended for seven matches; other players also received bans.
- FIFA fined Argentina $321,000 for the Falkland Islands banner but imposed no match bans.
Why it matters
The sanctions reveal FIFA's differing approach to violent conduct versus political messaging at major tournaments. Whilst on-pitch fighting drew substantial match bans, the banner incident—diplomatically sensitive—resulted only in financial penalty, raising questions about proportionality in tournament discipline.
