FIFA probe follows chaotic World Cup final as Paredes avoids red

In the dying moments of the second half of the World Cup final, Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow for a late challenge on Spain’s Pau Cubarsi, resulting in a red card that left Argentina with ten men as the match concluded.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes entered the game at half‑time, replacing a teammate, and was shown a yellow card shortly after his introduction. The incident occurred in New Jersey on Sunday.

Spain emerged victorious over Argentina, ending the South American side’s World Cup campaign. The win closed Argentina’s tournament run.

After the final whistle, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appeared to punch Spain captain Rodri in the stomach, sparking a disorderly scene. Leandro Paredes then seized Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat and wrestled Spain’s Gavi to the turf, pushing him face‑first while clutching his substitute bib.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni sprinted onto the field in an effort to calm the situation, and initial Paredes had been sent off were disproved when officials did not issue a dismissal.

FIFA confirmed it has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to examine potential breaches of its Disciplinary Code, citing article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code in its statement. The governing body’s decision to open a formal investigation follows the chaotic scenes that unfolded after the final.

The organization noted that Paredes was only shown a yellow card on its match centre, while only Enzo Fernandez was officially sent off, and the investigation will assess the post‑match incidents for possible violations.

The result leaves Argentina out of further World Cup contention, confirming the end of their campaign after Spain’s triumph.