Gavi does not think Paredes should be suspended af...

By Liam Tremblay — 22 July 2026 — 3 min read

Post-Match Confrontation Under Investigation

Following Spain‘s 1-0 victory over Argentina in the World Cup 2026 final, a confrontation between players from both teams occurred on the field. This incident has led to an investigation by FIFA. Several Argentina players were reportedly involved in the scuffle that took place as Spain celebrated their win.

Among those identified were Argentina‘s Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala. The altercation began when Paredes appeared to push Spain‘s Eric Garcia by the throat. Spain substitute Gavi attempted to intervene in the situation.

During the intervention, Gavi, a midfielder for Barcelona, was pushed to the ground by Almada. Paredes also pushed Gavi to the turf by placing his hand on the Spaniard’s face. Another incident saw Argentina defender Nahuel Molina seemingly hit Spain captain Rodri in the stomach as Rodri ran past to join his teammates in celebration.

Molina later crowded Rodri, who also faced a verbal confrontation from his former Manchester City teammate, Nicolás Otamendi. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and other players from the team reportedly intervened to de-escalate the situation on the field.

FIFA has since opened an investigation into the events. The organization’s disciplinary committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to assess potential breaches of the FIFA disciplinary code related to the post-match incidents. The statement from FIFA did not provide a timeline for the investigation.

Gavi’s Perspective on Potential Suspension

Despite being directly involved in the on-field scuffle, Spain midfielder Gavi has expressed his view that Leandro Paredes should not face a suspension. Gavi shared his thoughts with El Partidazo de COPE, stating, “I don’t think [Paredes] should be suspended.”

Gavi acknowledged that the incident might not present a positive image, particularly for younger audiences. However, he also suggested that such physicality is an inherent aspect of football. “I understand it’s not a good image for children, but I think there’s also that side to football, which is a bit more physical, more aggressive,” he explained.

He further commented that if any disciplinary action were to be taken, it should have occurred during the match itself. “The most logical thing would have been to send him off during the match, and that’s it. In the end, I think it’s all football, and it has to be that way,” Gavi added.

During the final, there was an incorrect report on FIFA‘s commentator information system indicating that Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Garcia. However, this red card was deleted from the system shortly after. FIFA has confirmed that no disciplinary action was taken against Paredes at the time of the match.

The investigation could potentially lead to a suspension for any player or coach found to be involved. Additionally, the Argentine Football Association could face a fine as a result of the incidents. The final match itself saw Argentina reduced to 10 men when Enzo Fernandez was dismissed after receiving a second yellow card during second-half added time.

The behaviour of the Argentina players following the match also drew attention. They stood facing their fans with their backs to the podium while Spain‘s squad lifted the trophy. This was noted as an unusual display, especially given that Spain had formed a guard of honour for Argentina to collect their medals earlier.