RismadarVoice Reporters, July 21, 2026
Argentina midfielder, Enzo Fernandez has defended his team’s performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the squad represented the country with pride despite their controversial campaign and defeat to Spain in the final.
The Chelsea midfielder made the remarks after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final, a match that ended with Fernandez being sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a late challenge on Spanish defender Pau Cubarsí.
His dismissal capped a tournament that was overshadowed by several disciplinary controversies involving the Argentine team.
Following the final whistle, midfielder Leandro Paredes was accused of attempting to confront members of the Spanish squad during their celebrations, prompting FIFA to open an investigation into the post-match incidents.
Argentina’s players also attracted criticism after reportedly turning their backs while Spain collected their medals and lifted the World Cup trophy.
Earlier in the tournament, the team sparked further controversy after displaying a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (“The Falklands are Argentine”) following their semi-final victory over England.
The slogan refers to Argentina’s long-standing claim over the Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory that was at the centre of the 1982 Falklands War.
In a message shared on Instagram, Fernandez thanked Argentine supporters and praised the team’s commitment throughout the competition, although he did not address his red card in the final.
He said that representing Argentina went beyond winning trophies, stressing that the squad always gave everything for the national jersey and never stopped fighting.
Fernandez described it as a privilege to be part of a team that consistently competed at the highest level with pride, humility and dedication.
The 25-year-old, who was also part of Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup-winning squad in Qatar, said wearing his country’s colours remains the greatest honour of his career and pledged to continue giving his best whenever selected.
Argentina’s hopes of retaining the World Cup title ended after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of extra time to hand Spain victory in a tightly contested final.
Meanwhile, Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez has hinted that he may retire from international football following the painful defeat.
The Aston Villa shot-stopper, who played a key role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph, said he would take time to reflect on his future with the national team.
Martínez admitted the disappointment of missing out on a second consecutive World Cup title was difficult to accept, adding that he would carefully consider whether it was the right time to step away from international football.
The 33-year-old also apologised to Argentine supporters, saying he had given everything possible for his country and teammates throughout the tournament.
