Fifa has appointed a disciplinary prosecutor to investigate ugly post-match violence involving Argentina players and staff after their World Cup final defeat to Spain – as Cristiano Ronaldo appeared to endorse a social media post branding the governing body 'corrupt' and 'mafia-like'.
Spain won 1-0 after extra time in New Jersey on Sunday, but the match was overshadowed by altercations at full-time. Members of the Argentina team and backroom staff were involved in clashes with Spain players who had begun to celebrate. Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala all appeared to be involved, with Paredes pushing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat. Spain's Gavi tried to intervene but was forced to the ground by Almada, before Paredes pushed Gavi to the turf by putting his hand in his face. Ayala then appeared to hold Garcia around the throat and strike Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.
“Fifa investigates Argentina brawl after World Cup final loss to Spain, as Enzo Fernandez defends team and Ronaldo likes 'corrupt' label.”
Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was sent off late in normal time for two yellow cards – the first for dissent towards Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic, the second for a challenge that sent Pau Cubarsi cartwheeling in the air – did not mention the red card in a social media statement. He said: "As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result. For years, this group has represented the team in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn't just about winning; it's about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up."
The Argentine Football Association could also be fined. Questions also remain over what happened behind closed doors before kick-off. Argentine television company RLC Noticias posted footage appearing to show Lionel Messi urging his team-mates to stay calm on their walk to the tunnel and "forget about everything else".
Meanwhile, Ronaldo – whose Portugal were knocked out in the last 16 by Spain – appeared to like an Instagram video in which Spanish journalists Pilar Rodrigues Losantos and Ruben Amon labelled Fifa "one of the most corrupt institutions on the planet" and an "abject, mafia-like, and shameful organisation". Messi, speaking after Argentina's loss, said: "The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold onto all the good things... It is hard to fully appreciate our achievement right now, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals." Ronaldo, reflecting on Portugal's exit, said: "I gave it my all. I did my best. It was my last World Cup, yes."