The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) opened an investigation on Monday after the Spanish national team's celebrations of their victory over Argentina in the World Cup final turned into a heated verbal altercation, following brief scuffles between players on the pitch.

Television replays showed several players involved in the altercation, including Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes.

Paredes appeared to push Spain defender Eric García by the neck, then shoved young player Gavi who intervened to defend his teammate.

It also appeared that Spain captain Rodri was struck in the stomach by Argentina defender Nahuel Molina as he passed by to join his teammates in celebrating the title win.

Another confrontation occurred between Molina and Rodri, who then entered into a discussion with his former Manchester City teammate and Argentina defender Nicolás Otamendi.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and other players quickly moved to calm the situation.

FIFA said in a statement that its disciplinary committee had decided to appoint a disciplinary prosecutor to investigate violations of the disciplinary regulations regarding the post-match incidents.

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The brief statement did not set a timeline for the investigation and did not name Paredes, who was not sent off after the match but could face a suspension penalty.

The Spanish team needed extra time to win the final on Sunday, 1-0, after the Argentine team played with ten men.

Enzo Fernández was sent off after receiving his second yellow card in stoppage time.

The Argentine players stood facing their fans, with their backs to the podium, as the Spanish team lifted the trophy, sparking angry reactions as the behavior seemed unacceptable and like a disrespect towards the new champions, who had formed a guard of honor for them as they went up to receive their medals.