Enzo Fernandez Defends Argentina After World Cup Final Brawl

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has defended Argentina's conduct at the World Cup, stating the team represented the nation "in the best possible way," despite his red card in the final and a post-match brawl that has triggered a FIFA investigation. Argentina lost the final 1-0 to Spain in extra time on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Fernandez was sent off in the 93rd minute after receiving a second yellow card for a challenge on Spain's Pau Cubarsi, forcing Argentina to play the entirety of extra time with ten men. Spain's winning goal came from Ferran Torres in the 106th minute. The match was followed by unsavory scenes as several Argentina players and staff confronted Spanish players during their celebrations. Videos showed Argentina's Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, and Thiago Almada, along with assistant coach Roberto Ayala, involved in physical altercations with Spain's Rodri, Eric Garcia, Gavi, and Dani Olmo.

FIFA's disciplinary committee has since appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess the incidents. Players or staff found guilty of violent conduct could face suspensions of at least three matches, and the Argentine Football...