Bellingham could face FIFA review after reported post-match incident

Jude Bellingham could face scrutiny from FIFA after a reported confrontation with Argentina substitute Valentín Barco at the end of England’s 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat.

Footage from the match was reported to show Bellingham approaching Barco, who had not played, and striking him on the back of the head as Argentina players celebrated on the pitch. Players from both teams then became involved in a brief confrontation before Bellingham moved away.

The reason for the incident was not clear. Barco was reported to have run onto the pitch after Enzo Fernández scored Argentina’s 85th-minute equaliser and celebrated close to England players.

FIFA’s disciplinary committee could consider whether to take action. The source report said any assessment would depend on how the incident is classified, noting that the Laws of the Game distinguish between violent conduct and a deliberate strike involving negligible force.

If Bellingham were found guilty of violent conduct, he could face suspension for England’s bronze-medal match against France in Miami. No disciplinary decision was reported at the time of publication.

Late Argentina winner ends England’s final hopes

Argentina progressed to the final after Lautaro Martínez scored in the second minute of stoppage time. England had taken an early second-half lead through Anthony Gordon, before Fernández levelled late in normal time.

The match in Atlanta was described as tense, with 19 fouls recorded in the first half. Bellingham also had an early exchange with Argentina captain Lionel Messi after Elliot Anderson was fouled.

Addressing that separate exchange after the game, Bellingham said it had been a discussion about a foul and was “nothing bad”.

Barco, 21, plays for Strasbourg and has made one appearance at the tournament, according to the report.