Frings misses out on semi-final after FIFA ban

FIFA has suspended Germany midfielder Torsten Frings for tonight’s World Cup semi-final against Italy.

Frings, aged 29, was banned for punching Argentina forward Julio Cruz in a fracas which followed the quarter-final between the two countries. He has been given a two-match ban, but the second match is suspended meaning he will be available for the World Cup final, if Germany qualify.

Team manager Oliver Bierhoff said he was disappointed.

“We found out about it on the plane on the way to Dortmund (for the semi-final),” said Bierhoff. “We haven’t seen the written reasons, but will accept the Fifa decision. Frings will get a special training programme to be completely fit for the final. Torsten is obviously not very happy about it. He’ll be able to go at full steam for the final, though.”

FIFA had announced on Sunday that it would take no action against the German players. Football’s governing body is considering action against officials of both teams and cases have already been opened against two Argentine players. Non-playing substitute Leandro Cufre was red-carded by referee Lubos Michel for his part in the incident.

A FIFA spokesman said Maxi Rodriguez may be punished for an “apparent attack on Bastien Schweinsteiger”.

The referee and FIFA officials were caught up in the fighting, with punches and kicks appearing to be thrown during the ugly scenes which lasted 90 seconds.