FIFA has confirmed that Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was not shown a red card after the World Cup final. Following Spain’s 1–0 victory in the final last Sunday, FIFA’s official match tracker initially showed a red card next to Paredes’ name. However, it was removed shortly afterward, and no disciplinary action against him was mentioned later.
However, Paredes could still face separate disciplinary action for getting involved in a clash with Spanish players after the final whistle. After the match at MetLife Stadium, he grabbed Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat and threw him to the ground. He also pushed Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground.
On Monday, FIFA announced that a prosecutor had been appointed to investigate the post-match clash between players of the two teams. According to FIFA regulations, the organization can appoint a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor.
The prosecutor may investigate the incident and recommend the initiation of formal disciplinary proceedings. They may also propose sanctions against football federations, clubs, or individuals involved. Besides Paredes, several others could face disciplinary action over the post-final clash.
Footage of the incident also shows that after the final whistle, as Spain captain Rodri ran toward midfield celebrating with teammates, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina punched him in the stomach.
Additionally, another video circulating on social media shows Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala punching Spain’s Dani Olmo after the match.
Meanwhile, following the defeat in the World Cup final, Paredes shared an emotional message on Instagram.
He wrote:
“Thank you, Argentina! Even today, as always, I love you. I write this with a heavy heart because we could not bring our country the joy it truly deserved. But we gave everything and once again upheld our flag with the highest honor.”
Post by News Desk