Argentina GK Martínez handed 2-game WCQ ban

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez has been suspended by FIFA’s disciplinary committee for two matches after being found to have displayed offensive behavior and “violating principles of fair play.”

He will miss Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela on Oct. 10 and Bolivia on Oct. 15.

FIFA found that Martínez violated its code of conduct when holding a replica of the Copa América trophy to his groin area, in reference to the celebration he did at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, after the victory against Chile on Sept. 5.

The Aston Villa star was also punished for his actions following Argentina’s 2-1 defeat against Colombia on Sept. 10, when shoving a camera operator’s equipment after the final whistle.

The operator, Jhonny Jackson told Colombian media outlets that he had been “assaulted” by Martínez, saying he “felt angry, very angry.”

The Argentine Football Federation (AFA) said a defense was presented by the player and association before FIFA confirmed the sanctions.

“It should be noted that the Argentine Football Association expresses its absolute disagreement with the decision taken by the FIFA disciplinary committee,” the AFA in a statement.

La Albiceleste currently lead Conmebol’s World Cup qualifying standings with 18 points in eight matches, two points clear of second place Colombia.

The top six teams from Conmebol will qualify directly to the 2026 tournament, with seventh place set to participate in an inter-confederation playoff match for a chance to clinch a ticket to the competition.