New footage from inside the tunnel of the World Cup final has emerged, showing referee Slavko Vincic pleading with Lionel Messi.
The Slovakian official, who retired immediately after the contest, is heard telling Argentina’s captain to “control” Leandro Paredes.
Paredes was involved in a fierce brawl at full time after Argentina lost 1-0 in extra time, attacking Spain’s Eric Garcia and Gavi.
Vincic can be heard saying: “Messi, control Paredes. I don’t want to… he has yellow. Control please. Always, always.”
The midfielder was brought on at half-time and booked just six minutes later, before launching his scathing attacks at full time.
Paredes grabbed Garcia by the neck before pushing and appearing to throw punches at youngster Gavi.
FIFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against the midfielder, including facing three counts of assault and a charge of unsporting behaviour.
Paredes has hinted at retiring from international football following the unsavoury scenes.
Footage from the World Cup final has emerged showing referee Slavko Vincic pleading with Lionel Messi
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FIFA
“For many, it will be the time to decide if to continue. It was a great journey,” he told ESPN.
“Maintaining that level, getting the group to continue to function as it has, will be very difficult, and there are many factors to consider.
“It will take time to digest what we’ve been through. The pain of losing the World Cup final will stay with us for a long time, because we came so close once again.
“I think we played in a World Cup where people saw themselves in us, and that’s very rewarding. In that sense, I’m happy.”
Paredes clashed with several Spanish players after Argentina lost to Spain
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Argentina were heavily criticised for their behaviour in the final and throughout the tournament.
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off just before the end of normal time for a second bookable offence after a horrendous challenge on Spain’s Pau Cubarsi.
His former team-mate and friend, Marc Cucurella, was speaking to him and Messi after the incident, appearing to partially cover his mouth during the discussion.
Messi immediately protested to Vincic that the Spanish full-back should be sent off for covering his mouth, with Fernandez echoing his calls.
Enzo Fernandez was sent off in the final
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Prior to the final against England, Argentina celebrated beating the Three Lions by holding up a banner reading “The Falklands are Argentine”.
FIFA has since opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina over possible breaches of several laws.
The breaches relate to team misconduct, security and protocol failures, inappropriate messages being displayed and the use of discriminatory chants and gestures.