FIFA opened a disciplinary case against Argentina for its players’ actions during a contentious World Cup quarter-final match against the Netherlands.
The soccer governing body cited “order and security at matches” in its disciplinary code for charging the Argentina soccer federation.
Argentina substitutes and coaches encroached on the field as the game turned confrontational in the late stages as the Dutch scored two late goals to force extra time. There were more heated exchanges on the field after Argentina won the penalty shootout following the 2-2 draw.
READ MORE: Ghosts of failures past come back to haunt Kane
READ MORE: Portugal blames Messi, referee for shock upset
READ MORE: Morocco make history as World Cup dream continues
READ MORE: Penalties cruel England again as France survive
Lionel Messi was among a World Cup record 17 players or coaching staff members who were shown yellow cards during or after the game.
Team misconduct charges are routine for collecting five yellow cards in a game and disciplinary cases were opened against both Argentina and the Netherlands, FIFA said.
Both federations could get the same $23,600 that FIFA’s disciplinary panel imposed twice on Saudi Arabia at this World Cup for team misconduct.
Argentina will likely get a heavier fine for the separate disorder charge.
FIFA gave no timetable for verdicts, which have typically not been published before a team’s next game at this World Cup.
Argentina faces Croatia in the semi-finals on Wednesday morning (AEDT).
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!
FIFA World Cup 2022 in pictures: Furious Messi blasts rival during TV interview
