Argentina hit with 21-game sanctions after World Cup final brawl
FIFA handed Argentina players and staff a combined 21 international-match bans following the mass altercation after the World Cup final defeat to Spain, with Leandro Paredes banned 10 games and fined $90,000, Nahuel Molina seven games and $90,000, Thiago Almada one game and $30,000, and Roberto Ayala three games and $30,000; Spain’s Gavi received a separate one‑game ban and $30,000 fine. Argentina’s federation was fined $310,000 and hit with stadium-closure measures related to fan conduct, with some penalties payable under a probationary plan. The bans apply only to international matches and can be appealed.