Gavi says Argentina should avoid bans after World Cup final clash
Spain midfielder Gavi told reporters he does not think Argentina players should be suspended after FIFA opened a probe into the final fracas.
By Deshawn Carter · Sports Writer
2 min read
Gavi was knocked to the turf in the post-final chaos, but the Spain midfielder does not want FIFA to hand Argentina players suspensions over the ugly scenes that followed the World Cup final.
FIFA opened an investigation after members of Argentina’s squad and coaching staff clashed with Spain players on the pitch following Sunday’s final whistle, ESPN reported. Spain had beaten Argentina 1-0 after extra time at MetLife Stadium.
Gavi, an unused substitute in the final, became part of the confrontation after stepping in for Spain teammate Eric García, according to ESPN. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes shoved the Barcelona player to the ground after Paredes had grabbed García by the throat, ESPN reported.
Asked Tuesday about potential punishment for Argentina players involved in the incident, Gavi told reporters, according to Marca, that he did not think they should be suspended.
Gavi acknowledged the images were poor for young viewers, saying, according to Marca, that it was not a good example for children. He added that football can have a more violent side, and suggested the matter could have been dealt with during the match rather than through later bans.
More footage from the aftermath showed Paredes and Nahuel Molina hitting García and Rodri, ESPN reported. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also seen apparently striking Dani Olmo, according to ESPN.
Argentina finished the match with one player sent off. Enzo Fernández was dismissed after receiving a second yellow card in stoppage time in the second half, ESPN reported.
The flashpoint came after a final in which Argentina were criticised by pundits for aggressive play and for their conduct after the match, according to ESPN. The tension did not stop once the medals and trophy came out.
Spain’s players formed a guard of honor for Argentina as the runners-up walked up to receive their medals, ESPN reported. Argentina’s players did not return the gesture when Spain lifted the trophy. Lionel Messi and his teammates turned away during Spain’s trophy celebration, according to ESPN.
Olmo, speaking to AS, said the moment came down to the values players choose to show. He said footballers are role models for many generations and suggested Argentina’s players should act like it too.
The investigation leaves FIFA to decide whether the post-match scuffle merits further action after one of the sport’s biggest nights ended with Spain celebrating a world title and Argentina under scrutiny for what happened after the whistle.
This story draws on original reporting from ESPN.com.