Argentina-Brazil is played yes or yes for FIFA: the AFA answers that it will go to the TAS

The story of the match between the national teams of Argentina and Brazil continues. This Monday, the FIFA Appeals Committee has confirmed the decisions of the Disciplinary Commission of the highest body, including the obligation to play the South American classic, suspended on September 5, 2021.

As reported by FIFA, after analyzing the appeals filed by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) against the decisions made by the Disciplinary Commission on the qualifying match that both teams should have played within the qualifying phase for the Qatar 2022 World Cup, Appeal confirms that the match should be played. In addition, it maintains the fine of 50,000 Swiss francs (more than 50,000 dollars) imposed on both federations because of the suspension.

Regarding the deficiencies shown by the parties in relation to their responsibilities or obligations derived from the party in question, the Appeal Commission decided: to reduce to 250 thousand Swiss francs (more than 250 thousand dollars) the fine imposed on the CBF as a consequence of breaches of public order and security; reduce to 100,000 Swiss francs (more than 100,000 dollars) the fine imposed on the AFA for failing to comply with its obligations related to the preparations and participation in the meeting.

Both teams, despite not counting said match, achieved their qualification for the 2022 Qatar World Cup. La Verdeamarela and La Albiceleste confirmed their pass to the tournament that runs from November 21 to December 18 last year.

The game that was being played in Sao Paulo was suspended five minutes after kick-off when agents from the Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency entered the field of play, arguing that four Argentine players (Emiliano Buendía, Emiliano Martínez, Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero) omitted when they arrived in Brazil that they had been in the United Kingdom 14 days before, which forced them to remain in isolation, in accordance with the country’s regulations due to the pandemic.

The position of the AFA

After hearing the opinion of the FIFA Appeals Committee, the AFA ruled: “The Argentine Football Association will request today the grounds for both decisions and will make the corresponding appeals before the Arbitration Court of Sport (TAS) in order to continue defending the rights of our team”says the statement.