After World Cup Scandal: Paredes and Co. Can Serve Bans Faster

FIFA is accommodating the Argentinian Football Association and easing sanctions against several individuals involved in the tumult after the World Cup final against Spain.

The bans for Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala may now be served in "Albiceleste" friendly matches, and not, as initially assumed, only in competitive games.

Paredes Hit Hardest

Leandro Paredes was initially punished particularly severely. The 32-year-old midfielder received a ban of ten international matches as well as a fine of around 90,000 US dollars.

Molina was sidelined for seven matches, Almada for one game. Ayala must observe three encounters from the sidelines.

Since Argentina will play several friendly matches in the coming months, those affected could now serve a large part of their bans much faster than initially expected.

AFA Seeks Further Mitigation

However, the Argentinian association still intends to challenge the decision further. According to its own statements, the AFA is still awaiting FIFA's written reasoning and reserves the right to take further legal steps.

The sanctions had been imposed after the tumultuous scenes in the World Cup final against Spain. The Argentinian association itself was also fined and must play a home match in front of a reduced crowd.