The International Federation of Association Football, FIFA, has revised its sanction against Argentina ahead of the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, Soccernet.football reports.
Initially, FIFA had ordered a 50% reduction in the capacity of the Estadio Mas Monumental for Argentina’s upcoming match against Chile. However, this penalty has now been lessened to a 25% capacity reduction.
This decision follows an appeal by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) regarding the original sanction.
The penalty was imposed after homophobic chants were directed by Argentina’s midfielder Enzo Fernandez and other players following their victory in the Copa America 2024 final against Colombia.
Lautaro Martinez’s goal in the 112th minute secured a 1-0 win for Argentina, earning them their 16th continental title at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami last month.
According to Gaston Edul of TyC Sports as per SportsTiger, FIFA’s adjustment allows the Estadio Mas Monumental to accommodate approximately 63,000 fans for the World Cup qualifier against Chile on September 6 as opposed to the previously mandated 50% reduction.
Four days later, Argentina will make the trip to Barranquilla to face Colombia in a repeat of the Copa final.
Lionel Messi, Argentina’s captain, who had been expected to miss the two upcoming qualifiers against Chile and Colombia due to an ankle injury, has expressed a strong desire to participate in these crucial matches.
Messi was substituted before the final whistle of the Copa America final and was seen with a swollen right ankle immediately after the game. His injury, which has prevented him from full training since last month, remains a concern for the team.