Enzo Fernandez has apologised to the Argentina supporters after being sent off in the World Cup final defeat to Spain. The Chelsea midfielder, who played a key role in helping his nation reach a second successive World Cup final by equalising in the semi-final win over England, was given his marching orders in the last minute of normal time.
Dissent and a Reckless Challenge
Already walking the disciplinary tightrope for showing dissent towards referee Slavko Vincic, Fernandez went steaming into a challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi which left the official with no other option but to brandish a second yellow card. The decision left Argentina, who were already being dominated by Spain, with a massive mountain to climb in extra-time.
Immediately realising his mistake, Fernandez raised his hands to the Argentina supporters asking for forgiveness as he made his way down the tunnel at the New York / New Jersey Stadium on Sunday night.
Alan Shearer's Reaction
On co-commentary for the BBC, former England captain Alan Shearer said: “How daft is that from Enzo Fernandez? He is on a yellow card for dissent, not the tackle, but for dissent. He knows that, because that didn’t happen long ago. For him to go into a challenge like that is crazy. He can protest as much as he wants. But it’s the right decision. He gave the referee only one choice, and that was to show another yellow there for the red.”
Spain's Winning Goal
After surviving a scare in the first period of extra-time when Nico Williams had a goal disallowed, Argentina’s resistance was eventually broken when Ferran Torres thumped home in the 106th minute. Led by captain Lionel Messi, Argentina tried to force an equaliser to send the World Cup final into penalties and did go close through Guiliano Simeone, but Fernandez’s sending off ultimately proved decisive.
