Enzo Fernandez sparks controversy with England-mocking post

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has ignited controversy with social media posts perceived as mocking England, following Argentina's dramatic 2-1 victory over the Three Lions in a World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, in Atlanta. The fallout has extended to his club and prompted a separate FIFA investigation into the conduct of the Argentine squad.

Fernandez, 25, played a pivotal role in the comeback win, scoring an 85th-minute equalizer before Lautaro Martinez netted a 92nd-minute winner to send the defending champions into Sunday's final against Spain. His on-field celebration, which involved cupping his ears and making gestures that appeared to mimic talking, drew immediate ire from England supporters.

The controversy escalated on Thursday when Fernandez shared a post on his Instagram story featuring a photo of himself laughing with teammates Lionel Messi and Leandro Paredes, set to the Oasis song "Wonderwall." The track had become an unofficial anthem for England's World Cup campaign, regularly sung by players and fans after matches. The post was widely interpreted as a deliberate provocation. Amid significant online backlash, Fernandez later deleted the version...