FIFA Probe proceedings have begun against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and several Argentina players over alleged disciplinary breaches during the FIFA World Cup.
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FIFA opened the cases after Argentina players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas” (“The Falklands are Argentine”) following their semi-final victory over England in Atlanta.
The governing body said its disciplinary code prohibits political or non-sporting demonstrations during official matches.
FIFA will now determine whether the banner violated its regulations.
This is not the first such case involving Argentina.
In 2014, FIFA fined the AFA £20,000 after players displayed a similar banner before a friendly match against Slovenia.
In addition, FIFA is investigating several other incidents from the tournament.
The allegations include discriminatory chants, offensive gestures, delayed kick-offs, security protocol breaches and inappropriate messages from teams and supporters.
Investigators are also examining reports that fans threw objects onto the field during several matches.
Meanwhile, FIFA opened separate disciplinary proceedings following the World Cup final in New Jersey.
Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the title.
The investigation follows a confrontation that broke out after the final whistle.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes allegedly pushed Spain’s Gavi to the ground as Spanish substitutes entered the pitch to celebrate.
According to FIFA, Paredes faces three disciplinary charges.
Meanwhile, Nahuel Molina faces two charges.
In addition, Thiago Almada, Roberto Ayala and Spain midfielder Gavi each face one charge for alleged unsporting behaviour.
FIFA said it has given all respondents an opportunity to submit their explanations.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee will review those responses before issuing a final decision.






















