Argentina are expected to come under a FIFA disciplinary investigation following violent confrontations at the conclusion of the World Cup final, in which Spain beat them 1-0 at the MetLife Stadium.

Several Argentina players and backroom staff became embroiled in altercations with Spain's players as the final whistle triggered the Spaniards' celebrations. The flashpoint began when Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appeared to punch midfielder Rodri as he ran from the dugout to celebrate with his team-mates.

The situation escalated rapidly. Rodri confronted Molina, but it was the Argentina player who advanced aggressively. Defender Eric Garcia rushed to support Rodri, at which point Leandro Paredes became involved — reportedly jabbing Garcia in the throat. Substitute Gavi attempted to intervene but was forced to the ground by Thiago Almada, before Paredes shoved him by placing a hand in his face.

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala then appeared to grab Garcia around the throat before seemingly striking Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.

Initial red card removed from record

FIFA initially reported that Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic following the incident, but the red card was subsequently removed from the official record. At the time of writing, no disciplinary action from match officials has been formally recorded. Argentina had already had one player dismissed during the game itself — Enzo Fernandez was shown a second yellow card in second-half stoppage time.

BBC One pundit Alan Shearer was scathing in his assessment: