The heated exchanges between Argentina and the Netherlands will not be overlooked by FIFA, as football's governing body could come up with sanctions for those involved in the many rifts that took place during and after the Quarter-final clash.
A brief press release by FIFA revealed that all taunts, statements, and even disciplinary actions by referee Mateu Lahoz will be looked into to determine the proper punishment to those involved if that is necessary.
"FIFA's Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for possible infractions to Articles 12(Conduct unbecoming to a player and/or officials) and 16(Order and security during games) of FIFA's Code of Conduct during the Netherlands vs Argentina game held on December 9,"the press release states.
This decision by FIFA could have a major effect on the upcoming semi-final clash for La Albiceleste, as players such as Emiliano Martínez, Leandro Paredes, and even Lionel Messi could be suspended for the key match due to their involvement in several rifts during and after the game, which included harsh statements against coach Louis Van Gaal (by Martínez) and taunts against rivals (by Messi).
Contrary to popular belief, the Dutch team will also be investigated due to their actions in the game, which included bullying the referee and Argentine players during and after the match.
The main issue for FIFA, as they included in the press release, is that their decision must be taken before the first semi-final clash, mainly because if there are disciplinary actions against Argentine players, they have to be revealed at least the day before the match is held.
As things stand, Martínez, Messi, Paredes, and Nicolás Otamendi could be facing bans for their involvement in the rifts against the Dutch side.
