Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández has taken to Instagram to defend Argentina’s World Cup performance, insisting the team represented the nation in the ‘best possible way’ despite a tumultuous campaign that included his red card in the final. Fernández was sent off for a second booking after clattering into Spain’s Pau Cubarsi in the closing stages of normal time in Sunday’s 1-0 loss. His premature exit was the latest in a series of clashes that cast a shadow over Argentina’s run to the final. Leandro Paredes appeared to throw punches at Spain players as they celebrated, prompting FIFA to launch an investigation into potential disciplinary breaches. Argentina also turned their backs on Spain during the medal ceremony and displayed a banner reading ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’ after beating England in the semi-finals. In his Instagram message, Fernández made no mention of his sending off, focusing instead on the team’s effort. ‘As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result. For years, this group has represented the team in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the shirt and never giving up,’ he wrote. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is considering his international future, posting on Instagram: ‘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.’
Article and image source: batimes.com.ar
