AFCON 2025
Argentina have secured a major reprieve after FIFA approved their request for players sanctioned over the post-match brawl following the 2026 World Cup final to serve their suspensions in friendly matches.
Three Argentina players and assistant coach Roberto Ayala were sanctioned by FIFA following the ugly scenes that followed their 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
Leandro Paredes received the heaviest punishment, with the midfielder handed a 10-match suspension and fined £65,000 after grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the neck before punching Gavi and pushing him to the ground.
Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches after striking Spain captain Rodri in the torso during the confrontation.
Thiago Almada and Spain midfielder Gavi were each handed one-match suspensions for their involvement in the incident.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) subsequently requested that the sanctions be served during friendly and/or official matches, whichever comes first.
According to the AFA, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has approved the request in accordance with its regulations.
The decision could allow Argentina to arrange a series of friendly matches during upcoming international breaks, potentially accelerating the return of Paredes and Molina for competitive fixtures.
However, the AFA confirmed that it will continue with its appeal against the sanctions. The federation said it is awaiting FIFA’s written explanation of the disciplinary decisions before taking the matter to the FIFA Appeals Committee, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) remaining a possible final avenue.
The development gives Argentina an opportunity to reduce the impact of the suspensions while pursuing further legal action against the original sanctions.
