Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez has broken his silence after becoming the sixth player to be sent off in a World Cup final.
The Chelsea star, 25, was shown two yellow cards in the space of 11 minutes towards the end of normal time in Argentina’s clash against Spain at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Fernandez received his first yellow card in the 82nd minute from referee Slavko Vincic following a show of dissent after failing to win a free-kick.
He risked further punishment by sarcastically applauding the referee’s decision but was let off the hook.
However, Fernandez made Argentina’s task of winning significantly harder after clattering Spain defender Pau Cubarsi with a late challenge, resulting in his stoppage-time red card.
Ten-man Argentina defended valiantly in extra-time against a Spain team who’d passed them off the pitch for over 90 minutes.
But Ferran Torres’ 106th-minute goal was enough to secure a second World Cup title for Spain, leaving Lionel Messi and his teammates crestfallen at the final whistle.
Messi waving his hand in the air whilst Marc Cucurella tries to stop him. Related
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Enzo Fernandez Breaks Silence With Social Media Post
Argentina's Enzo Fernandez fouls Spain's Pau Cubarsi resulting in a second yellow card followed by a red cardREUTERS/Brian Snyder
On Monday evening, 24 hours after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat, Fernandez released the following statement via Instagram:
“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. 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.
“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.
“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.”
Argentina have been lambasted for their disappointing performance during the final, followed by unsavoury scenes that marred Spain’s full-time celebrations.
FIFA are set to launch an investigation into the behaviour of Argentina’s players after the final whistle.
A FIFA spokesperson said: “As is standard procedure, FIFA's independent Disciplinary Committee is currently assessing the match reports and considering the relevant circumstances before deciding on potential further steps based on the FIFA Disciplinary Code.”
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Fernandez: Sixth Player Shown Red Card in World Cup Final
Enzo Fernandezvia REUTERS/Dylan Martinez
Fernandez is the third player from Argentina to be sent off in a World Cup final, following Pedro Monzon and Gustavo Dezotti (both in 1990).
Former France internationals Marcel Desailly and Zinedine Zidane, for an infamous headbutt on Italy’s Marco Materazzi, saw red in the 1998 and 2006 World Cup finals, respectively.
Ex-Netherlands star John Heitinga is the only other player to be shown a red card in a World Cup final, while playing against Spain in the 2010 final.