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Argentina players and coach charged as FIFA probes 'Malvinas' banner - ABC News

FIFA has charged Argentina's players and coach for displaying a 'Malvinas' banner during a recent match. The incident has raised questions about political expressions in sports.

The aftermath of Argentina's World Cup loss has led to serious charges against several players and their coach, as FIFA investigates incidents that marred the tournament's conclusion. The disciplinary actions stem from both physical altercations following the final match and the display of a politically charged banner during the semifinals.

Charges Against Players and Coach

Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and coach Roberto Ayala are facing charges related to assaults on Spanish opponents after the World Cup final, where Spain secured a 1-0 victory on July 19. Paredes is charged with three counts of assault, while Molina faces two charges, and Ayala has one. Additionally, both Molina and Thiago Almada have been cited for unsporting behavior, a charge that has also been applied to Spain's Gavi.

Political Banner Controversy

FIFA has also charged Argentina's football federation for the players' display of a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas," which translates to "The Malvinas are Argentine," following their semifinal win against England. This banner references the Falkland Islands, a territory claimed by Argentina and the subject of a conflict with Britain in 1982. The British government had previously urged FIFA to investigate the matter, leading to the formal charge of "using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature."

FIFA's Disciplinary Committee is currently reviewing the cases, and all individuals charged have been given the opportunity to present their side of the story. Decisions regarding the charges will be announced in due course.

Source: abc.net.au