LONDON: Enzo Fernandez insists Argentina will continue to represent the country ‘as best as possible’ at the World Cup despite their campaign being marred by several controversies, including the red card he received in the final.
The Chelsea midfielder was shown a red card after receiving a second yellow card for a hard tackle on Spaniard Pau Cubarsi at the end of normal time before Argentina lost 0-1 to Spain in the final, last Monday morning.
Fernandez’s expulsion is the latest in a series of heated incidents that have marred Argentina’s journey to the finals.
Leandro Paredes is accused of trying to throw a punch at members of the Spanish squad as they celebrated the victory, with the International Football Federation (FIFA) opening an investigation into possible disciplinary violations following the unpleasant atmosphere after the match.
The Argentine players were also criticized after they turned their backs on Spain as the La Roja squad received their championship medals and trophies.
Controversy also erupted when Argentine players displayed a banner reading ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’ (The Falkland Islands belong to Argentina) after defeating England in the semi-final.
The Falkland Islands, located in the South Atlantic, were the source of conflict between Argentina and Britain in 1982 before Britain regained control of the territory after a short war.
Fernandez took to Instagram to defend his country’s performance throughout the World Cup but did not address the red card he received.
“As time goes by, you realize there is something bigger than just the result of the match.
“Over the years, this group has represented the team in the best possible way. It teaches that competing is not just about winning; it’s about giving everything for the jersey and never giving up,” he said.
Fernandez was part of the Argentina squad that defeated France to lift the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
However, his dreams of winning a second consecutive title were dashed when he was sent off before Ferran Torres scored Spain’s winning goal in the 106th minute in a final that saw Argentina criticised for their defensive approach.
“It is a privilege to be part of a group that is constantly rising, competing at the highest level and defending the national colours with pride, humility and commitment.
“I want to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being with us, supporting us in every match and making us feel at home wherever we are.
“Wearing the national jersey is the greatest honour of my career and I will continue to give my all every time I get the chance to defend it,” he said.