Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina, the world champions, are facing FIFA disciplinary proceedings for fair play violations and offensive behaviour by its players during the FIFA World Cup 2022 final match against France in Qatar. Argentina outclassed two-time World Cup winners France 4-2 on penalties in FIFA WC Final to win their third ever World Cup trophy. The moment was quite visceral and it seems like some emotional Argentine players possibly crossed a line during celebrations.
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“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Argentinian Football Association due to potential breaches of articles 11 (Offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play) and 12 (Misconduct of players and officials) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, as well as of article 44 of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Regulations in conjunction with the Media and Marketing Regulations for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, during the Argentina v. France FIFA World Cup™ final," FIFA has said in a statement.
As per several media reports, some players ignored interacting with international media despite commitments. The focal point arguably was Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's lewd gesture, he did upon receiving the 'Golden Glove' trophy during the post-match ceremony.
The star player also grabbed headlines for mocking France striker Kylian Mbappe during Argentina's celebration inside their dressing room. Martinez had asked for a minute of silence for Kylian Mbappé in the middle of dressing room celebrations. Mbappe had scored a dream hat-trick in the final vs Argentina but his heroics went in vain.
Later in an interview, Martinez revealed that his gesture was in response to France supporters booing him. The goalkeeper told Argentine radio station La Red, via AS: ‘I did it because the French booed me. Pride does not work with me.’