By Onoja Baba, Nigeria
Argentina’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, has been handed a two-match ban by FIFA for “offensive behavior” and “violating principles of fair play,” the Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced on Saturday.
The 32-year-old Aston Villa star was penalized for two separate incidents, including an inappropriate gesture during Argentina’s World Cup qualifier win over Chile on September 5, where Martinez held a replica of the Copa America trophy to his groin.
This is not the first time Martinez has engaged in such behavior, having performed a similar act with the Golden Glove trophy after Argentina’s victory over France in the 2022 World Cup final.
In addition to this incident, FIFA also sanctioned Martinez for striking a cameraman’s equipment after Argentina’s 2-1 loss to Colombia on September 10.
The AFA expressed strong dissatisfaction with FIFA’s ruling, stating in an official release: “The Argentine Football Association expresses its absolute disagreement with the decision taken by the FIFA disciplinary committee.”
Due to the ban, Martinez will miss Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela on October 10 and Bolivia on October 15.
Argentina currently leads the South American qualifying table with 18 points after eight matches, with Colombia trailing just two points behind.
categories
recent posts
NIGERIA: Tinubu Reaffirms African Unity At John Mahama’s Ghana Presidential Inauguration
Kenyan Leaders Urge President Ruto To Promote Unity At State Functions
NIGERIA: Tinubu Approves Lavish Retirement Benefits for Service Chiefs, Generals
Nigeria : Peter Obi Raises Alarm Over Threats Following New Year Message
