In a shocking move, FIFA has handed Argentina’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez a two-match suspension for violating the governing body’s code of conduct. The 32-year-old Aston Villa star was found guilty of “displaying unacceptable behavior” and “breaching fair play principles” in two separate incidents.
The first incident occurred on September 5, when Martinez was seen holding a replica of the Copa America trophy in a provocative manner after Argentina’s win over Chile. This celebratory gesture was not an isolated incident, as Martinez had previously done the same with the Golden Glove trophy after Argentina’s 2022 World Cup final victory.
The second incident took place on September 10, when Martinez vented his frustration by hitting a TV cameraman’s camera with his gloves after Argentina’s 2-1 defeat to Colombia.
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FIFA’s disciplinary committee deemed Martinez’s actions unacceptable, leading to his suspension. As a result, Martinez will miss Argentina’s crucial World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela on October 10 and Bolivia on October 15.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) expressed strong dissatisfaction with FIFA’s ruling, stating, “We strongly disagree with the decision made by the FIFA disciplinary committee, and believe it is excessive.”
Argentina currently tops the South American qualifying table with 18 points after eight matches, narrowly ahead of Colombia. Martinez’s absence could potentially impact the team’s performance in these critical matches.
Will Argentina’s star-studded lineup be able to overcome Martinez’s suspension and secure victory in their upcoming qualifiers?
