Argentine FA to be handed 'bigger fine' after England controversy - finance expert

The Argentinian FA are likely to be given a slap on the wrist after displaying a political banner at full-time after beating England.

That is according to former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider that the controversy is being blown out of proportion.

Giovani Lo Celso caused a stir when bringing a banner onto the pitch, one that translated to "The Falklands are Argentine," with England fans wanting the team booted out of the 2026 World Cup.

Supporters continue to rage about the controversy online, with FIFA now opening an investigation before deciding whether or not to punish Argentina.

The Argentinian FA were fined just shy of £20,000 in 2014 for a similar incident, and the same is likely to happen again, rather than anything more impactful.

There are conflicting reports, however, that state FIFA could choose a much harsher sanction, though clearly not everyone agrees with that idea.

Argentina only have 'bigger issue' with repeated offences

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson believes that the entire situation is "not that big a deal" and has been blown out of proportion.

"It'll just be a bigger fine. I mean, it's not that big a deal. I just think it'll be a bigger fine and they'll be warned," he said.

"I guess at some point, if they keep doing it, then maybe there'll be an issue. I don't know how long ago the first incident was...

"But ultimately, at the heat of the moment, they won the game, a massive game, a massive win. Personally, for me, it's just not that big a deal."

The fans have certainly been split by this incident. While the Three Lions were beaten fair and square in the game, many believe that their post-match actions should have huge repercussions.

Ex-FIFA referee wants action to be taken

Until FIFA reach a decision, the debate is likely to trundle on, but Keith Hackett is clear about what he believes should be the punishment.

Speaking to Football Insider, the former FIFA referee expressed his disappointment at the situation, stating that a "large fine" is "inevitable".

He has urged FIFA to act appropriately, but given some of their decisions during the 2026 World Cup, not everyone is confident of that happening.

FIFA and Gianni Infantino lost any remaining credibility when suspending Folarin Balogun's red card so he could face Belgium.

Even banning Argentina from the final is unlikely to rebuild any trust.