Fifa opens disciplinary case over Argentina Falklands banner at World

FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina’s football association (AFA) and players after alleged breaches during the World Cup, including holding up a banner asserting sovereignty over the Falkland Islands. Following Argentina’s semi-final win over England in Atlanta, players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas.” FIFA said using a sporting event for non-sporting demonstrations could violate its disciplinary code. The organization noted a similar incident in 2014, when Argentina was fined £20,000 ($26,560). Other alleged issues include discriminatory chants and gestures, late kick-offs, security failures, inappropriate messages, and objects thrown by fans. Separate proceedings also followed the final in New Jersey, after Spain beat Argentina 1-0.