Brazil, Argentina face 'disciplinary action' over World Cup qualifier scuffle

Following the brawl that broke out during the World Cup qualifier match between Argentine and Brazil fans at the Maracana Stadium, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has initiated disciplinary action against Argentina and Brazil soccer federations.

Earlier this week, Brazilian police charged the Argentina fans after a scuffle broke out between the visitor and home fans which prompted Lionel Messi and co to head towards the terraces crowd in an attempt to calm down the charged-up fans.

The disturbance from clashes between opposing fans behind one of the goals during the national anthems with the crowd further resorting to tearing out seats and others seeking refuge on the pitch after the police intervention.

The players, including Messi, Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez, and others, made efforts to de-escalate the situation, leading to a temporary suspension of the match.

Following the scuffle, FIFA has charged the Argentine soccer federation for possible breaches of 'Articles 17.2 and 14.5' of the FIFA disciplinary code for crowd disturbance and late kick-off, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Brazilian federation has been charged for possible violation of Article 17 which relates to ensuring security at the matches, reported India Today.

"FIFA can confirm that its Disciplinary Committee has opened proceedings against the Brazilian Football Association (CBF) and the Argentinian Football Association (AFA)," the regulatory body said in a statement on Friday.

The match ended with Argentina triumphing over the host side with 1-0 courtesy of Nicolas Otamendi's header.