Updated 23:08, 20 Jul 2026<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/span><\/div>\n
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\nReferee Slavko Vincic shows a red card to Enzo Fernandez of Argentina(Image: Heuler Andrey\/Eurasia Sport Images\/Getty Images)<\/cite><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/button><\/p>\n
Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez has broken his silence after being sent off in the World Cup final. The Chelsea ace was booked for dissent in the second half and then shown a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi.<\/p>\n
His dismissal resulted in Argentina having to play 30 minutes of extra time with only 10 men. Spain struggled to take advantage but eventually won the game through Ferran Torres’ crisp half volley in the penalty area.<\/p>\n
Before his red card, Fernandez was at the heart of Argentina’s World Cup campaign, heading in the winning goal against Egypt and scoring a crucial equaliser in their 2-1 win over England. However, after his red card, he sent a message to his followers on social media.<\/p>\n
Just over 24 hours after his dismissal, the Chelsea midfielder took to social media and wrote: “As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result. For years, this group has represented us in the best possible way.<\/p>\n
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK!<\/strong> <\/strong>Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football’s Facebook page<\/u><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n “It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up. It has been a privilege to be part of a group that always stepped up, competed at the highest level, and defended these colours with pride, humility, and commitment.<\/p>\n
“I want to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being there, for supporting us in every match, for the affection, for the unconditional support, and for making us feel at home anywhere in the world.<\/p>\n
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<\/g><\/clippath><\/defs><\/svg>Content cannot be displayed without consent<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n“Wearing my country’s jersey is the greatest honour of my career, and I will continue to give my all every time I get to defend it.”<\/p>\n
Throughout the tournament, he contributed two goals in seven appearances in the USA, Canada and Mexico. He also played every minute of every game for Lionel Scaloni’s side, up until his red card at the New York\/New Jersey Stadium.<\/p>\n
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\nEnzo Fernandez was sent off for Argentina in extra time(Image: Getty Images)<\/cite><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/button><\/div>\n
Fernandez has been widely chastised by pundits for his sending off. His showing of dissent towards referee Slavko Vincic was a costly and unnecessary booking, while his second challenge on Cubarsi was high, late, and could arguably have put him in danger of seeing a straight red card.<\/p>\n
He was also heavily criticised by his country’s media after the match. Argentine outlets La Nacion and Ole both ranked him a 4\/10, while Clarin gave him a five before summarising his display by saying: “The sending-off capped off one of his worst matches of the tournament.”<\/p>\n
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