Controversial Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez banned for two games by FIFA; Here’s why – First post

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez has been banned for two matches by FIFA for “offensive behavior,” the Argentine Football Association (AFA) said in a statement on Friday. Martinez will miss Argentina’s next South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in October against Venezuela and Bolivia.

The Aston Villa goalkeeper was suspended following incidents in games against Chile and Colombia earlier this month.

In the Chile game, his first since winning the Copa America in the USA, Martinez celebrated with a suggestive gesture with the trophy, as he did after winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

After the defeat against Colombia, the 32-year-old met a local television camera.

“Damian Emiliano Martinez will be held accountable for his offensive behavior and his violation of the principles of fair play,” the AFA said in a statement, adding that it disagreed with the FIFA Disciplinary Committee’s decision.

Argentina leads South American World Cup qualifying with 18 points after eight games, followed by Colombia (16) and Uruguay (15).

With agency inputs