Argentina players fire back as FIFA investigates World Cup final chaos

Argentina’s World Cup squad has pushed back against mounting criticism after FIFA opened a disciplinary investigation into the ugly scenes that followed Sunday’s final against Spain. Lionel Scaloni’s side fell 1-0 to Spain after extra time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, failing to defend their 2022 crown. But the fallout from the match has been dominated by the brawl that erupted at the final whistle. Footage showed Nahuel Molina punching Rodri as the Spain midfielder celebrated. Leandro Paredes was also seen grabbing Eric Garcia and Gavi by the throat. Despite initial reports that Paredes had been sent off, FIFA later confirmed no red card was issued for either incident. Enzo Fernandez was sent off in normal time after a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi. Argentina’s Nicolas Tagliafico, Alexis Mac Allister and Giuliano Simeone also drew criticism for escaping punishment for heavy tackles. FIFA announced Monday it had appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to review the post-match events and is also assessing match reports regarding a banner displayed by Argentina after their semi-final win over England, which referenced the Falkland Islands. Under-fire Argentina players have now hit back. Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul took to Instagram to slam what he called “baseless conspiracy theories” about referees favouring Argentina. He wrote: “Our smiles bother them… the passion and love we have for our jersey can overcome anything. I am proud to be Argentine.” Enzo Fernandez also released a statement defending the squad’s “humility” but offered no apology for his red card. He wrote: “As time passes, you realise there is something much bigger than a result. This group has represented our country in the best possible way.” The controversy comes after earlier tournament incidents, including Lionel Messi escaping punishment for a studs-up challenge on Algeria’s Aissa Mandi, and Egypt having a goal ruled out against Argentina via VAR for a marginal foul by Marwan Attia on Lisandro Martinez.