Molina smiles as FIFA reduces Argentina ban; Paredes suspension upheld

Molina's Argentina ban reduced from seven to four matches; Paredes' ten-match suspension upheld by FIFA.

FIFA has partially upheld Argentina's appeal against disciplinary sanctions handed down after the violent clash between Spain and Argentina players. Nahuel Molina's suspension has been reduced from seven to four matches, with his fine cut from $77,000 to $60,000. The Roma defender was punished for punching Rodri during Spain's celebrations. Leandro Paredes, however, saw his ten-match ban with Argentina confirmed, along with a $90,000 fine, after pushing and striking Eric García and subsequently clashing with Gavi. Molina will now return to coach Scaloni's squad three matches earlier than originally scheduled. The AFA has announced it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport against Paredes' suspension and separate sanctions relating to alleged racist chanting by the federation.