Alan Shearer has strongly criticized Enzo Fernandez after the Chelsea midfielder was sent off during Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain, claiming the 25-year-old 'cost his country' with a 'stupid' challenge. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal for Spain in extra-time after Fernandez received a second yellow card in the 93rd minute for a reckless tackle on Pau Cubarsi.
Fernandez's red card controversy
Fernandez was first booked for dissent before his late challenge on Cubarsi left referee Slavko Vincic with no choice but to issue a second yellow card. Replays confirmed the decision was correct, but Fernandez protested by wagging his finger. The red card reduced Argentina to ten men, and Spain capitalized through Torres's goal.
Shearer's harsh verdict
Reacting on The Rest Is Football, Shearer did not hold back: 'Stupid! He got done for dissent which he should never have done. But to go into that tackle when you're already on a yellow card, it was already going to be bad enough anyway but going down to ten men… that's when they just thought Spain are going to win. He's cost his country massively. As much as he helped get them through to the final with that wonderful goal against England, he's cost his country.'
Post-match brawl and red cards
Ill feelings continued after the final whistle. Leandro Paredes was shown a red card following a melee with Gavi and Eric Garcia. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was seen punching Dani Olmo in the throat, sparking ugly scenes. Fernandez later raised his hands to fans, asking for forgiveness as he walked down the tunnel at MetLife Stadium.
Micah Richards criticizes Paredes, praises Cubarsi
Micah Richards called Paredes's behavior 'embarrassing,' saying: 'Win or lose, you've got to shake hands.' However, Richards praised Spain's 19-year-old defender Pau Cubarsi, calling him a 'superstar.' 'It's his football IQ. He's very good on the ball… He's growing, he's learning every single time. He's a superstar already,' Richards said.
Tournament awards
Spain captain Rodri won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player. Goalkeeper Unai Simon took the Golden Glove, and Cubarsi was named best young player. France's Kylian Mbappe became the first player to win the World Cup Golden Boot twice, finishing as top scorer with ten goals.
