FIFA hands Argentina heavy sanctions after World Cup misconduct

Paredes has been suspended for 10 international matches and fined 90,000 dollars after being involved in the ugly scenes that followed Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat by Spain in the final in New York/New Jersey.

Nahuel Molina has also been handed a significant suspension, with the Argentina defender banned for seven matches and fined 90,000 dollars. Thiago Almada received a one-game suspension and 30,000 dollars fine.

Argentina coaching staff member Roberto Ayala has been suspended for three matches and fined 30,000 dollars, while Spain midfielder Gavi has received a one-match ban and the same financial penalty for his involvement in the confrontation.

The post-match disorder followed a fiercely contested final in which Argentina had already lost Enzo Fernandez to a red card. Paredes was subsequently sent off after grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat and pushing Gavi, while Molina was involved in another altercation involving Spain captain Rodri.

The disciplinary action against Argentina extends beyond the final, with the AFA receiving a 321,000 dollars fine over several offences during the tournament.

A significant part of the case also relates to a banner displayed during Argentina's 2-1 semi-final victory over England. The message read, 'Las Malvinas son Argentinas', meaning 'The Falkland Islands are Argentine', referring to the disputed British overseas territory.

The Falkland Islands have been a longstanding point of dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom. Argentina invaded the islands in 1982 before surrendering several weeks later, while residents voted overwhelmingly to retain their status as a British overseas territory in a 2013 referendum.

All of the suspensions imposed on players and staff apply to international matches.