FIFA World Cup

FIFA Probes Post-Match Brawl After Spain’s World Cup Triumph

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epa13121572 Referee Slavko Vincic (L) checks on Mikel Merino of Spain (bottom C) lying on the ground during the FIFA World Cup 2026 final match Spain against Argentina, in New Jersey, USA, 19 July 2026. EPA/SARAH YENESEL

FIFA has confirmed it has launched an investigation into the post-match brawl that erupted following Spain’s World Cup final victory over Argentina.

A 106th minute winner by Ferran Torres sealed Spain a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The match had already been a heated affair, with Argentina’s indiscipline proving costly as midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí.

Scenes turned ugly after the final whistle, with Leandro Paredes appearing to put his hands around Eric García’s throat, while Nahuel Molina seemed to punch Rodri in the stomach.

Meanwhile, Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also seen appearing to strike Spain forward Dani Olmo during the post-match confrontation, before Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni and several players intervened to restore order.

FIFA has confirmed it has opened a disciplinary investigation to determine whether further action is warranted.

“Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the Fifa World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code (FDC), the Fifa Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents,” Fifa said in a statement.