FIFA drops the hammer on Argentina after World Cup final brawl and Falklands row

Argentina charged over Falklands banner as three face action for ‘assault’

FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentinian Football Association over the unveiling of a Falklands banner after their match against England and other incidents.

Political tensions linger between the two nations over the Falkland Islands, known as “Las Malvinas” in Argentina, who have repeatedly claimed sovereignty over the archipelago – something which resulted in a 74-day war in 1982.

A number of players unveiled a hand-written sign proclaiming Argentinian ownership of the British overseas territory after two late goals had seen them secure victory in Atlanta, in contravention of rules on making demonstrations of a non-sporting nature.