FIFA suspends Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for 'offensive behaviour'

Argentina's World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been handed a two-match suspension by FIFA for "offensive behaviour," according to the Argentine Football Association (AFA).

The 32-year-old Aston Villa player was also charged with "violating principles of fair play" in two separate incidents.

Martinez's first violation occurred during Argentina's World Cup qualifier against Chile on September 5, when he was seen holding a replica of the Copa America trophy to his groin in an inappropriate gesture.

This is not the first time the goalkeeper has made such a display, as he had previously performed a similar gesture with the Golden Glove trophy after Argentina's victory over France in the 2022 World Cup final.

In addition, FIFA sanctioned Martinez for striking a TV cameraman's equipment with his gloves following Argentina's 2-1 defeat by Colombia on September 10.

The AFA voiced its dissatisfaction with the ruling in a statement, saying, "The Argentine Football Association expresses its absolute disagreement with the decision taken by the FIFA disciplinary committee."

As a result of the suspension, Martinez will miss Argentina's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela on October 10 and Bolivia on October 15. Argentina currently leads the South American qualifying table with 18 points from eight matches, while Colombia trails closely with just two points behind.