Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been handed a two-match suspension by FIFA for “offensive behaviour,” causing him to miss Argentina’s upcoming fixtures. This decision stems from two controversial incidents during the recent 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia.

During Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Chile on September 6, Martinez mimicked his notorious celebrations from the 2022 World Cup, displaying a replica Copa America trophy inappropriately. This match marked Argentina’s first game since their Copa America win in July in the United States. Following a 2-1 loss to Colombia on September 10, Martinez struck a camera with his gloves as he was approached by a cameraman on the pitch.

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While the Argentina Football Association has expressed disagreement with FIFA’s ruling, it acknowledged that Martinez must take responsibility for his actions. As a result of the ban, he will not participate in the qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia scheduled for October. Notably, Martinez was awarded the Golden Glove for best goalkeeper at the 2022 World Cup, a title he celebrated with the trophy placed near his groin during the presentation.