After being sent off for Argentina in the World Cup final, Enzo Fernandes published a social media post explaining his thoughts.
Referee Slavko Vincic shows Argentina’s Enzo Fernandes a red card (Image: Heuler Andrey/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandes has broken his silence after being sent off in the World Cup final. The Chelsea ace was booked for dissent in the second half and then shown a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Spain defender Pau Kvarsi.
His sending off meant Argentina had to play 30 minutes of extra time with just 10 men. Spain struggled to capitalize on their advantage, but eventually won the match with Ferran Torres’ sharp half-volley inside the penalty area.
Before receiving his red card, Fernandes was at the heart of Argentina’s World Cup campaign, scoring the winning goal with a header against Egypt and scoring the decisive equalizer in a 2-1 win against England. However, after the red card, he sent a message to his followers on social media.
Just over 24 hours after his sending off, the Chelsea midfielder wrote on social media: “As time passes, you realize there is something much bigger than just the result. For many years this group has represented us in the best possible way.”
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“It teaches us that competing isn’t just about winning, it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up. It was an honor to be part of a group that always steps up, competes at the highest level, and defends these colors with pride, humility, and dedication.”
“I would like to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being there, supporting us in every match, for your love and unconditional support and for making us feel at home no matter where you are in the world.”
“Wearing my country’s uniform is the greatest honor of my career and I will continue to do everything I can to defend it.”
Throughout the tournament, he played in seven games in the United States, Canada and Mexico, contributing two goals. He also played the full game for Lionel Scaloni’s team until receiving a red card at New York/New Jersey Stadium.
Enzo Fernandes was sent off for Argentina in extra time (Image: Getty Images)
Fernandes was widely criticized by pundits for his red card. His expression of dissent against referee Slavko Vincic was a costly and unnecessary sanction, while his second challenge on Kvarši was high, late and arguably could have put him in danger of receiving a straight red card.
After the match, he was heavily criticized by the media in his home country. Argentine media outlets La Nacion and Ole both gave him a rating of 4/10, while Clarin gave him a 5, summing up: “The sending off capped off one of his worst matches of the tournament.”
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