Fernandez defends Argentina after World Cup final controversy

ISLAMABAD: Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez said the national side represented itself in the best possible manner at the World Cup despite a tournament run overshadowed by disciplinary flashpoints, including his own sending off in the final defeat to Spain.

Fernandez was dismissed for a second yellow card late in normal time of Sunday's final, after a challenge on Spain's Pau Cubarsi, as Argentina went on to lose 1-0. His red card came amid a series of incidents involving the team during and after the tournament. Following the final, Leandro Paredes appeared to throw punches at Spain players during the post-match celebrations, prompting Fifa to open an investigation into possible disciplinary violations. Argentina's players also turned their backs as Spain collected their medals and the trophy.

The team had already drawn criticism earlier in the tournament after displaying a banner reading Las Malvinas son Argentinas following their semi-final win over England. The phrase refers to the Falkland Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic that Argentina invaded in 1982 before Britain retook the islands during a short war ordered by then prime minister Margaret Thatcher.

Fernandez posts message to supporters

In an Instagram message, Fernandez defended the team's efforts but did not refer to his red card.

He said:

As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result.

Fernandez added:

For years, this group has represented the team in the best possible way.

He also said:

It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up.

Fernandez, who was part of Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad in Qatar, said it had been a privilege to belong to a team that consistently rose to the occasion, competed at the highest level and wore the national colours with pride, humility and commitment. He also thanked Argentina supporters for backing the side throughout the competition and said representing his country remained the greatest honour of his career.

Martinez weighs future after defeat

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also reflected publicly on the loss and suggested he would now consider whether to continue at international level. The 33-year-old Aston Villa player, who was part of Argentina's World Cup triumph four years ago, said he had hoped to win the tournament again and bring the trophy back to Argentina.

In his own Instagram post, Martinez wrote:

I dreamed of winning it again; I dreamed of bringing it back to Argentina and making history once more.

He added:

Honestly, the pain is hard to put into words. Now I have to reflect on many things, see how to move forward, and decide if it’s time to step aside.

Martinez also apologised and said he had given everything he had for his country and his teammates.

The final was decided by Ferran Torres's goal in the 106th minute after a tense match that was described as dour and marked by Argentina's defensive approach.