Players clash after World Cup final time called
Argentine Leandro Paredes pushed Spain’s Eric Garcia after the World Cup final.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes did not receive a red card for his actions after Sunday’s World Cup final, FIFA has confirmed.
FIFA’s official match tracker showed Paredes with a red card after the final whistle of Spain’s 1-0 win. But the red card was deleted shortly afterwards and no disciplinary action was listed against the midfielder.
Regardless, Paredes is still likely to face discipline for his actions after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium. Paredes violently grabbed Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat, knocking him to the ground, then shoved Spain midfielder Gavi to the turf as a melee ensued.
On Monday, FIFA announced it had appointed a prosecutor to conduct an investigation into the post-match brawl.
FIFA has the option to appoint a “disciplinary and ethics prosecutor” who can “request the opening of disciplinary proceedings and propose that disciplinary measures be imposed on member associations, clubs and individuals.”
Paredes may not be the only person to face disciplinary action for the post-match fracas.
Video from the post-match incident also appeared to show Argentina defender Nahuel Molina throwing a punch to the mid-section of Spain captain Rodri as he ran near midfield with his teammates in celebration immediately after the final whistle.
In addition, video has also surfaced of Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala allegedly punching Spain’s Dani Olmo after the game.
