Enzo Fernandez refused to apologise for his 'stupid' red card offence in a passionate statement following Argentina's World Cup final defeat against Spain. The Chelsea midfielder was widely criticised for the reckless challenge that sent Pau Cubarsí into orbit and earned him a second booking moments from the end of normal time.
It took just over a minute for Spain to make their numerical advantage in the first period of extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the goal that effectively ended Argentina's reign as world champions. Fernandez was lambasted for an act of wild indiscipline, with Alan Shearer particularly scathing, calling him stupid and accusing him of letting his country down.
Fernandez's statement shows no remorse
Despite leaving his side with a mountain to climb, there was little sign of remorse in Fernandez's statement on Monday. The 25-year-old, who had otherwise enjoyed a reputation-enhancing tournament capped by scoring a brilliant late equaliser in the semi-final win over England, ended the competition in disgrace.
'As time passes, you realize there is something much bigger than a result,' he said. 'For years, this group has represented our country in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn't just about winning, but about giving everything for the shirt and never giving up. Being part of this group, which has always stood up, competed to the very end, and defended these colors with pride, humility, and commitment, is something I'll always cherish.'
'I want to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being there, for supporting us in every match, for your affection, for your unconditional support, and for making us feel at home no matter where we are in the world. Wearing my country's shirt is the greatest honor of my career, and I will continue to give everything I have every time I'm called upon to defend it.'
Impact on Argentina's World Cup hopes
Fernandez's red card came with the score at 0-0 in the final, and Spain quickly capitalised on their numerical advantage. Ferran Torres scored in the 91st minute, and Argentina could not recover, losing 1-0. The defeat ended Argentina's hopes of retaining the World Cup they won in 2022, and Fernandez's indiscipline was a major talking point. According to Alan Shearer, the challenge was 'stupid' and let the entire country down.
