FIFA Imposes Heavy Sanctions on Paredes and Molina for World Cup Final Outbursts

Leandro Paredes has been handed a 10-match ban and fined $90,000 for his involvement in the altercations that erupted after the final whistle of the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. His teammate Nahuel Molina, another key figure in the disgraceful post-match scenes, received a seven-match suspension and an identical fine. Thiago Almada escaped with a single-match ban and a $30,000 fine. Penalties were also issued to members of Argentina's staff: Roberto Ayala, Lionel Scaloni's assistant, was suspended for three matches and fined $30,000, while Pablo Martin Paez Gaviria will face the same fine and a one-match ban.

In addition, the Argentine Football Association has been fined $321,000. The national team is also required to play its next two home matches with limited attendance – 50% of stadium capacity – although the sanction for one of these matches is conditional and will only be enforced if there's a new infraction.

The chaos began immediately after the final whistle, which confirmed Spain's World Cup triumph. Argentina's right-back Nahuel Molina, who entered the game in the 58th minute, inexplicably struck Spain's midfielder Rodri in the stomach. Rodri, who was running from the bench to celebrate with his teammates, stopped after the blow. The former Manchester City player, now a Barcelona signing, approached Molina for an explanation. Eric Garcia then joined, also seeking answers. Paredes subsequently rushed over, grabbing the Barcelona defender by the throat and pushing him to the ground, before also tackling Gavi. It later emerged that the Boca Juniors midfielder did not even receive a red card for his brutal actions.

However, this wasn't the only skirmish on the pitch. Shortly after, Roberto Fabian Ayala, Lionel Scaloni's assistant, struck Dani Olmo in the neck as he celebrated nearby.