Buenos Aires . Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez has been suspended for two matches by FIFA's disciplinary committee for “breaching the principles of fair play”.
Martínez will miss Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia next month.
Martínez breached FIFA's code of conduct during Copa America matches against Chile and Colombia earlier this month. After the win against Chile, the goalkeeper was seen holding a replica of the Copa America trophy to his groin area, a reminder of his celebration after the 2022 FIFA World Cup win.
The Aston Villa star also faced consequences for his actions following Argentina's 21 defeat to Colombia on 10 September, when he pushed a camera operator's equipment after the final whistle.
The Argentine Football Federation (AFA) said that the defense was presented by the player and the union before FIFA confirmed the sanctions.
“Damián Emiliano Martínez is being held accountable for his aggressive behavior and breach of the principles of fair play,” the AFA said in a statement.
“It should be noted that the Argentine Football Association strongly disagrees with the decision taken by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee,” it added.
La Albiceleste currently tops the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings with 18 points from eight matches, two points clear of secondplace Colombia.
CONMEBOL's top six teams will gain direct qualification for the 2026 tournament, while the seventhplaced team will enter an interconfederation playoff to secure a place in the competition.
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Image Credit: KhasKhabar.